Each year I ride in the Cycle Against Suicide because this cause has become deeply personal.
Over the years, I have lost a very dear friend and mentor, a man in his 60s whose wisdom, kindness, and guidance impacted countless lives. More recently, the daughter of another close friend, only in her 30s, also lost her battle. Then, just yesterday while on vacation, I ran into an old friend I hadn't seen in a while. During our conversation, she shared that her brother, Johnny a man I had known for many years and always remembered as a kind soul and one of the sweetest guys you'd ever meet was also lost to suicide.
Three people. Three different ages. Three different lives. One heartbreaking reminder that this affliction knows no boundaries.
The numbers are sobering. More than 49,000 Americans die by suicide each year in the United States, and millions more struggle with thoughts of suicide. Behind every statistic is a family forever changed and a community left asking, "How could this happen?"
One lesson continues to resonate with me: you never truly know what someone else is carrying. A smile can hide tremendous pain. A successful career, a loving family, or an outgoing personality doesn't make someone immune. That's why I believe one of the greatest gifts we can give each other is to be humble and kind. A kind word, a listening ear, or simply letting someone know they matter may make more of a difference than we'll ever know.
That is why I ride.
If you are able, I would be honored if you would support my Cycle Against Suicide ride with a donation of any amount. Together, we can raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and remind those who are struggling that they are not alone.
Thank you for your generosity, your friendship, and for helping bring hope where it is needed most. If this message inspires you to do just one thing today, let it be this: reach out to someone, check in on a friend, and choose kindness. You never know when that simple act might change or even save a life.