Hi, my name is Clay Williams, and I'll be running across Canada in 2026 to bring mental health solutions to the forefront of our national conversation.

For me, this cause is deeply personal. I lost two brothers to suicide—one in 1982 and another in 2007. The ripple effects of mental illness have also touched my wife, my oldest sister, and my daughter, who all battle with depression.

In 2015, I started the annual Canal Pursuit for Mental Health, a 785 km run to Ottawa. My goal was simple: raise funds and awareness for the Mood Disorders Society of Canada and help fight the stigma surrounding mental health. Before my first run, I invited people struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders to sign a Canadian flag. I carried that flag the entire distance as a symbol that they don't have to carry their burdens alone.

Now, after a decade of carrying that flag to Parliament Hill, it's time to shift from awareness to action.

As I approach my golden years, I have one last shot at a big event, and I’m dedicating it to finding solutions. I'm running across Canada, carrying that same flag, to deliver a message directly to our leaders. Along my route, I will meet with federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to share the latest and best recommendations for mental health care in Canada, gathered from community mental health organizations nationwide.

My planned route is not the shortest path. I will intentionally run into every province, including Prince Edward Island, and even fly to the territories to ensure our under-represented North is not forgotten.

I'm committed to this journey, but I can't do it alone. The run will take approximately five months and involves significant expenses, including:

My goal is to fund this mission without sacrificing my retirement savings. Any funds raised in excess of my expenses will be donated directly to the Mood Disorders Society of Canada.

Your donation will help turn this mission into a reality and ensure I can deliver this crucial message to every corner of Canada. Together, we can push for real change and help make sure no one has to carry their burden alone.