About 160 people came out for a road race in Mitchell's Bay to support first responders and farmers who struggle with their mental health.
The Hard Miles Run was held in Mitchell's Bay on Saturday. Participants had the option to run, walk, or bike a five-kilometre or 10-km course. The motto of the day was, "No one gets left behind."
This event was organized in memory of Dalles Bersgma, a farmer and member of a local fire department who died by suicide in 2020.
Dalles' brother, Dustin Bersgma, planned the Hard Miles Run to help raise awareness about mental health for people who work in agriculture and emergency services.
The event raised about $15,000 for local mental health initiatives I've Got Your Back 911 and the Three Oaks Cabin.
"We appreciate all of the support we had, and we look forward to putting another event together next year," Dustin said after the Hard Miles Run.
#IVEGOTYOURBACK911 is a campaign to spread awareness on the mental health issues faced by paramedics, police, firefighters.
Three Oaks Respite Cabin is a getaway in Mitchell's Bay designed for farmers and first responders. It offers a remote, stress-free environment where individuals can recharge and focus on their wellbeing. The location is being developed by the Bersgma family as another way of honouring Dalles' life.
