Second Annual Michael Cherry Memorial Walk

Five years ago, on October 5, 2017, Michael S. Cherry lost his life to a battle with depression and anxiety. Well-known and loved in his community, Michael was acknowledged in his obituary as “a kind soul in an angry world.” By the time Michael was out of technical college, he was assisting those in need, providing aid to Haiti in 2011 and participating in humanitarian efforts in Peru. He loved hands-on activities, and had a passion for dirt biking and motorcycles.

 

On a daily average, 130 people lose their lives to suicide in the U.S. (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention). Quite often, people lose their lives to this epidemic because it seems as if there are no other options readily available. We’re here to show that there are.

 

In remembrance of Michael, and to honor the five-year anniversary of his passing, the Oddball Foundation is once again holding the Michael Cherry Memorial 5K. Last year's 5K was an incredible event with guest speakers from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, This is My Brave, and Fit for Duty. That was a day for us all to honor Michael, have a conversation about suicide, mental health, family, and how we all need to take care of each other. It was a beautiful event, and we were pleased to raise thousands of dollars for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and to award up to three Grafton High School student scholarships in the name of the Cherry Family.

 

This year will be the fifth year of Michael’s passing, and we want to honor Michael in a big way, by continuing the conversation about suicide and the importance of mental health and supporting each other. We want to put on another amazing event, but this time raise twice as much money, have a more professional 5K, bigger giveaways, and more speakers, music, and fun for the whole family.

 

We are beginning the planning process early, and are asking for your help again! Thank you so much to everyone who was a part of last year's event. This year is going to be just as amazing, but we can’t do it without you.

 

 

 

About Us:

The Oddball Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma associated with mental health, pursuing the path of social justice and engaging in environmental projects to enhance awareness and aid. It was founded during the coronavirus pandemic to further Jason Wright’s 1995 vision of Oddball Magazine, a literary outlet created to foster social change.

 

Proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards the 5k to be held on October 1, 2022 and furthering the mission of the Oddball Foundation.

 

Jason Wright is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Oddball Magazine, the President of the Oddball Foundation, host of the Oddball Show, and, most importantly, the loving uncle of Michael Cherry.

 

For more about last year's event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXvoJ-MqI9M

   SIGN UP FOR The Michael Cherry 5K on October 15th, 2022

https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Grafton/MichaelCherryMemorialRun