Running for Preventative Mental Health
Donation protected
I need your help, I'm saying it, I'm voicing it, I'm letting it be known! I'll shout it from the rooftops! (This is something I have struggled with)
I am asking for your help, your assistance, whether financial or your time and energy to share this cause with friends, family or perhaps Jonesy the bloke you work with.
Suicide, Depression & Anxiety has been a part of my life since I can remember. But that hasn't stopped me from living my life to it's fullest! Although it nearly did 12 years ago, trapped in a world of dark thoughts, incapable of understanding that my life could change, I wanted to end my life and the enduring suffering! Gratefully a miracle occurred in my life and I was given a second chance to live this life & learn that change is possible.
I've got to explore multiple countries and continents, swim in the bluest of waters, dive with the creatures of the sea that leave you speechless, experience the skies of white and the joy of surfing the powdery waters that we find in the mountains, I've cycled across deserts, I've witnessed the stars in a light that feels more surreal than the love we witness when we sob while watching the Notebook! I've met magical humans, who's gratitude is hard to comprehend. On the journey, I've realised how lucky I am to have had the opportunity and privilege to grow up as a white male. I can now have a fond appreciation of the journey & sacrifices my parents made in immigrating to Australia on a hope that their two young boys will be able to walk the streets without fear of being killed, a hope that I share for every human being to believe that change is possible & we all deserve to live a life that is not based on fear.
So why are you reading these tales?
- Because without the miracle that I experienced I would never of had the opportunity to see life through a different lens. I want to share that and give others an opportunity to smile with others, to look at themselves and realise how amazing and incredible they are!
I want to create the opportunity for a surfing & camping adventure of a lifetime for youth and/or young adults experiencing depression/anxiety or suicidal thoughts. Building and creating connections that will support them through the turbulent waters, knowing that they aren't alone.
But how will you assist others in this?
- Having had the pleasure of guiding travellers on the WhyNotBus or Barefoot Tours in Australia, I know what it takes to curate an experience that will enable the opportunity of connecting with others, as well as reconnecting and feeling proud of oneself. I'm partnering with FML Adventures to ensure this experience will be magical! (Forests Mountains Lakes) Instagram - @fmladventures
Where will the funds raised go?
- If we are able to reach our fundraising goal, we will be able to offer two trips from Victoria/Vancouver to the wild West Coast, known for its whales, wild surf and perhaps the love of camping! The funds will cover the cost of bus hire, driver hire, insurance, all food costs and accommodation, and surfing lessons! Smores on the fire! A psychologist/counsellor and any support staff needed to ensure this trip is safe!
What happens if we don't raise the funds?
- The full amount will be donated between Foundry BC , RUOK & The Good Human Factory. But I'll keep running until we do! So we will get there, for every km I run, I will donate a $1.
What's in it for you?
- You'll give purpose to my chosen suffering of running 800km in December. You'll raise awareness and give an experience of a lifetime to those in the midst of the struggle. You'll be the reason someone smiles & perhaps a miracle could happen.
It's now the 22nd of December. Snow is on the way and I'm about to head outside and run my 22miles (35.4km) for the day. I would love to have your support and assistance in shaping a world we all want to be apart of!
Much Love,
Merry Christmas
Dylan Joss
@dylanjoss_
@fernwoodsocialrunclub
If you are or you know a young adult (18+) or youth (13-18) that you believe would benefit please send a message, looking to run the trips in April 2022!
Organizer
Dylan Joss
Organizer
Victoria, BC
