- by Jim Cummings

In 2010, as a life time cyclist, I was inspired by Olympic cyclist and speed skater Clara Hughes’ “Bell Let’s Talk” campaign and later her “Clara’s Big Ride” (cycling 11,000 kilometers in 110 days around Canada ) to get people talking and help end the stigma around mental illness.

When I heard that in June 2013 there was a planned bike ride in support of the local Canadian Mental Health Association here in Owen Sound, I decided it was something I wanted to be part off and give a little back to my community.

Secondly, over these nine years I have learnt a great deal about mental Illness and the many local programs that are offered here to break the stigma.
Many lives have been shattered and lost due to this terrible illness and it’s time that we talk more about it and bring it into the open.
This was brought close to home for me in the spring of 2019 when a Junior Canadian Champion cyclist, the 19 year daughter of close friends, tragically died by suicide.

So by riding my bike (which I love doing) and encouraging other cyclists to join me in raising awareness and much needed funds, I am proud that I can contribute in a small way to this important cause.

I ride so no one else has to ride alone.

#ridedonthidegreybruce #RideDontHide #cmhanational
https://cmha.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=8182&fbclid=IwAR1WAjKlO3Gr9lY5T6H7esmuztBOnvV-1s8N8ftx3xju2iR6B2NLiahCh3k