Family Stories: About the Speakers

Patti Dille is a compassionate advocate and community leader who has dedicated her life to honoring the memory of her son, Matthew, whom she lost to suicide. Through her work, Patti offers hope, connection, and understanding to individuals and families who are navigating mental health challenges and loss. She serves as the Outreach Coordinator for The Peyton Heart Project and volunteers with the Montgomery County Suicide Prevention Taskforce. Patti also facilitates a suicide loss support group for parents each month at Pillars of Light and Love in Trappe, as well as being a co-leader of a MS Support group that meets every 2nd Wednesday of each month from 6:30-8:30 pm at Generations of Indian Valley in Souderton. In addition, she leads a weekly Stitch and Chat group at the Lansdale Library, creating opportunities for community, creativity, and connection. Patti is dedicated to providing all individuals a safe and supportive space for healing.

Following the tragic loss of their son Jack to suicide, the Duffy's established the Jack Duffy Empowerment Foundation, a 501(c)3 to honor his life and promote empowerment of physical and mental health for teens and young adults. As President of the Foundation, Colleen leads the overall strategy and plans in youth mental health, suicide awareness and education, loss survivor peer support, and charitable events. Colleen previously served as a Board Member, Treasurer, and Walk Chair for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Greater Philadelphia and a Board Member and Chair of Development and Community Engagement Committees for the National Alliance on Mental Illness Montgomery County. She has an extensive career in healthcare, with over 25 years experience at Merck and Co., Inc. as an Executive Business Leader. Colleen has an MBA and a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is certified in Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid.

Following the tragic loss of their son Jack to suicide, the Duffys established the Jack Duffy Empowerment Foundation, a 501(c)3 to honor his life and promote empowerment of physical and mental health for teens and young adults. As Vice President, Bill supports the Foundation’s youth mental health and suicide awareness programs as well as loss survivor peer support. He specializes in creative development of projects for mental health, self esteem, and grief support. Bill has an extensive career in healthcare, with over 30 years experience as a Hospital Pharmacist. He has an MBA and a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy.

After raising two children, Robin now spends her time in retirement enjoying her two grandchildren, managing her winery in Abruzzo, and supporting her friends and loved ones. Her mental health journey with her own family has fueled her passion for championing for others, using her trauma informed training and empathetic nature to uplift and advocate for their needs.

In 2014, Katrina lost both her brother and cousin to suicide. Just a few short months after, her daughter was diagnosed with Autism. After a pivotal year of navigating loss and the journey of special needs parenting, Katrina became a strong advocate for Suicide Prevention, Autism Awareness and Education, and Mental Health Support for Women. Katrina uses these passions to fuel her work as a Family Peer Support Partner with HopeWorx, Inc., where she provides support and advocacy for families who are navigating the child-serving systems.