Kim Ruocco, MSW

Nominated by: Jill A. Harrington, DSW, LCSW, Lead Editor, Superhero Grief: The Transformative Power of Loss

Kim Ruocco, MSW has worked tirelessly for the past 15 years to help create and develop Suicide Postvention and Prevention services for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). After the death of her spouse, Marine Corps Major John Ruocco, who died by suicide 2005, Kim saw the rising need for specialized military family suicide postvention services.  With her education and experience as a social worker, Kim has created, developed, and directed suicide postvention and prevention services for military surviving families at TAPS.  Since that time, Kim and her team have helped thousands of survivors grieving the loss of a military/veteran service member to suicide as well as provided life-saving assistance to those who are in crisis.  Transforming her loss into a positive agent of support, Kim has been an advocate, educator, mentor, and overall super hero to all those suffering the loss of a loved one to suicide in the military or a veteran.  We salute Kim Ruocco as she retires from a life of service to those who serve and protect her nation and their families.  You embody the true meaning and character of a super hero!