Hi,
I've been doing this ride for since the beginning along with a group of friends. Mac is one of those friends and I've known him since before Eric passed.
My brother took his life a little over 20 years ago. He did not share his struggles at all. Not even with his closest friends. It was a complete shock and surprise to everyone who knew him. So this is the primary driver for me to join an incredible event like this. I'll never know what demons my brother faced, but if mental health hadn't been so stigmatized I wonder if he would have sought help. Further, we grew up in a midwest environment and family where mental health was not discussed.
I have also struggled with my own mental health over time. I believe that everyone should have the support that they need. For many people, if they wake up one morning with the sniffles and wonder if it might be something more than just a cold, they'll go to their doctor. No fear there! But if someone wakes up and doesn't feel quite right, or maybe feels like they can't face the day, where do they turn for help? The two situations are really not that much different, but the second one is so stigmatized that so many folks go without the help that they need.
It is for those reasons that I am doing the Ride for Mental Health. To honor all the lives we have lost. And to support all of those who are suffering.
I greatly appreciate your contribution to this worthwhile cause. Thank you for your support!
With love,
Eric
The Ride for Mental Health 2022
The Ride for Mental Health is one of the first rides in the country to benefit mental health. The proceeds raised will be donated to McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate, for the education, research, and treatment of mental illness including anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, eating disorders and substance abuse. Our mission is to raise funds for McLean so that we can help accelerate the progress being made to help others who suffer from mental illness.
We also hope to end the stigma surrounding mental illness through education and awareness. The promotion of this ride is a start. Many if not most of us are touched by close friends and relatives who have suffered from one type or another of mental illness.
MATCHING GIFTS:
Many employers will match your gift to the Ride. Please check with your company.
Checks should be made payable to Eric’s Ride Inc. and mailed to:
Mac Dorris
537 1st Street
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Eric's Ride Inc. is a New York not for profit corporation with 501(c)(3) status. 100% of rider pledges will be donated to McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate.