On April 7, I am heading to Spain to walk the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage of 500 miles over six weeks. I am making this trek to honor our daughter, Emma, who died by suicide in 2023 at the age of 22.

This journey is deeply personal for me. Emma and I had always talked about walking the Camino together someday, and I never imagined I would one day need to make this pilgrimage without her. So, I am walking it for Emma and in memory of her. I know I’ll feel her with me on the trail, especially on the hard days. I can already hear her voice in my head saying, “Come on, mama, you can do it!”

Emma was a remarkable young woman, a talented athlete and someone who cared deeply about other people. She was always looking for ways to give back. I want this walk to reflect that spirit by doing something that could help other young people.

I am raising money for The Hidden Opponent https://www.thehiddenopponent.org/about a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health care for student-athletes. It is a cause I believe Emma would have embraced wholeheartedly.

I will personally match every dollar raised.

More than anything, I hope something good can come from our loss. If supporting this effort feels meaningful to you, thank you. And even if you’re not able to give, I would be grateful if you kept us in your thoughts as I make this walk for Emma.

With love and gratitude,

Anne