The Next Step Movement

The Next Step Movement: Running 2,200+ Miles for Suicide Awareness

I’m running 2,200+ miles on foot—from Austin, TX to Oregon City, OR—in honor of my best friend AJ, who took his life there. Every mile is for those we’ve lost, and those still fighting to stay. This run is about mental health, movement, and reminding people that the next step is worth taking.

AJ was the kind of person who lit up a room. He once told me, “No matter how dark the clouds, there’s light on the other side.” He believed that—until the day he couldn’t. That’s why I’m dedicating this journey to him, and to every person who’s felt like giving up. I got the tattoo he once dreamed of—an arrow through the clouds—on my arm the day after he died. Now I carry it, and him, with me through every step.

The funds raised will go toward the support van, crew, gear, food, recovery tools, filming the journey, and outreach across cities and communities. I’ll be running 25–35 miles a day for 75–100 days, and every dollar helps make this mission possible. Remaining funds will go directly to mental health and suicide prevention nonprofits.

This is about more than running. It’s about being human. Showing up. And taking the next step—even when it hurts.