437-mile prevention run across South Dakota kicks off amid surging suicide numbers in Sioux Falls

Avera program highlights connection between physical and mental wellbeing

Deaths by suicide are spiking in Sioux Falls.

The number of people who have taken their own lives in South Dakota's largest city this year has already surpassed yearly totals for the three prior years, according to the Sioux Falls Police Department.

The 26 suicides reported through August already exceed the 22 total reported last year. And through August …