JAX to ATL Luke Hannon Memorial Ride

My Name is Will Jessup, I am 29 years old living in Orlando FL and on January 22nd, 2020, I lost my younger brother Luke to suicide. Now approaching the one year anniversary of his passing,  I would like to do something to not only remember and honor his life but to bring awareness to the 1 in 5 or nearly 60 million, who face the day-to-day reality of living with a mental health condition. Prior to my brother’s battle, I didn't pay much attention to the ongoing mental illness epidemic in the US and like many, indirectly associated a stigma to it. Regrettably,  Since that dreadful day almost a year ago I have done next to nothing to advocate for better lives for those individuals who have a mental illness. In 2021 I am determined to change that and would like to start by taking on a daunting physical challenge. Next Monday, January 18th, 2021. I will be attempting to bike over the course of 4 days from Jacksonville, FL to my parent’s house in Lawrenceville, GA by way of Savannah, GA (416 miles). Many know I am an avid cyclist, but I have never taken on that many miles in that short of time. Not only will I be riding in memory of Luke but will be riding on behalf of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This organization works with individuals who struggle with mental health issues ranging from severe depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. I am doing this ride with the intention of bringing more attention to the mental challenges that many face. If you would like to get involved, please consider donating a small amount, or commenting/messaging me with some words of encouragement as I am sure I will need them riding solo through rural Georgia in the middle of January.  PLEASE share and pass this message along. Let’s work together to raise awareness and end the stigma.