I started running a little over two years ago to take control of my personal health, both physical and mental. Those first couple of months were a struggle that I hadn't ever felt before. Honestly, the mental was the hardest thing to get through; just the act of starting each run felt like a mountain to climb each day.

I had a few sources of inspiration to keep moving and continuing to challenge myself. My close friends Brian and Brandon, with their efforts at running; a kid over in the UK named Marcus Skeet, who became the youngest ever to run the length of the UK to support a mental health charity Mind; and most of all, my friend Justin, who died by suicide in 2014.

Justin was an incredible runner and such a kind soul that left a profound impact on every life that he touched, mine especially. I asked his mom if there were any groups or foundations that she would want to support.

So, I am grateful to run my first marathon in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Your donations will directly support AFSP in their mission to:

Having dealt with my own struggles throughout life, I will always strive to become a better advocate for those and their loved ones who were and are unable to find the support and resources that they need when dealing with this issue.

Thank you,

Erik