The intention of this blog is to share my experience in preparing for a marathon as something that I am doing for myself, but more importantly in honor of my brother Daniel. While not formally diagnosed, and unbeknown to even some of his closest friends and family, Daniel had a long fight with depression. Tragically he took his own life on December 4, 2008.
Dan still shines on – his passion, sense of adventure, dedication, humor and spirit will live on through many many others.
One of my favorite things about running is that it is a time to let your mind wander through thoughts and memories. Running in honor of Dan brings many great memories of our time together to mind and gives me time to reflect – it is sharing this that I am hoping to do a bit of through this blog. Shared stories about Dan from friends and family can also be found on his tribute website at www.danielsheffer.com in addition to photos and more about his life
As part of this effort my friends Gareth James and Ryan Price, who are both running the National Half Marathon on the same day, are fundraising to benefit Active Minds, an organization that strives to break down stigmas surrounding mental illness through developing chapters to promote awareness on college campuses across the country. Check out our website to donate and/or track our progress at: http://www.firstgiving.com/thomas-ryan-gareth
great!
Thank you Gareth and Ryan too.
Hi Thomas,
My wife, Dolly, and I read about your Marathon run in tribute to your brother, Daniel. This is wonderful, in manifold fashion, for you, your family, and the community of depressed college kids. Raising awareness and lowering the negative stigma of depression and health issue related to the mind are key efforts.
We lost our son, Austin, last October. He was a junior at JMU and took his life.
We would like to sponsor you at $10/mile for your run. Also, I’d like to learn more about Active Minds.
Please contact me at your earliest convenience to tell me how to fulfill this pledge.
Best of luck and God Bless,
Bibb and Dolly Frazier
8643 Mill Creek Church Road
Port Republic, VA 24471
540.234.8883
Dear Thomas,
Thank you for sharing your story with the world and also for sharing Dan’s life and his beautiful and unique photos.
Thank you for raising awareness about mental health issues and shining a light on sucide in general. Perhaps even one more life will be saved…
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. I wish you continued healing in the months to come. I would love to keep in touch with you or your family if any are interested. (540) 833-4185.
Most warmly,
Suzy
http://www.zachary-labonte.memory-of.com