An avid runner and passionate advocate for mental health will spend the next several weeks training for a 100 mile (160 kilometre) run.
Jonathan Valdes tells Sarnia News Today he participated in a 100 km run in 2024 -- running in memory of two of his high school friends; Cason King and Matt Reddy.
"I went to school with them at St. Christopher Secondary School. I met them during cross country. They were talented runners and kind hearted people who led by example," said Valdes.
King (32) died in 2022, while Reddy (33) passed away in 2023.
"They were both very big runners. They always gave 100 per cent in everything they did and they had bright futures," he said.
Valdes, 34, said he runs to inspire others to raise awareness and support critical causes.
"This will be my first time doing anything over 105 km," he said. "The amount of support I've been getting has been incredible and I've been preparing for this. It's something that I'm really looking forward to doing. I think as a runner, 100 miles is a big time goal that you want to achieve. So, it's definitely something that I'm excited about."
Valdes' run -- held in conjunction with Mental Health Week -- will begin Friday, May 9 at Refined Fool and conclude on Saturday, May 10.
"I'll be doing two loops. So, if anyone is interested in coming out to support, watch, cheer, or even run a bit... they're more than welcome to," he said.
Valdes is hoping to raise $2,000 for the Sarnia-Lambton Youth Wellness Hub (YWHO).
The space -- which opened in 2023 at the former CIBC bank at the corner of Front and Lochiel Streets -- assists youth aged 11 to 25 and their families who are seeking fast access to education, assessments, counselling and treatment surrounding mental health and addictions.
More information for members of the community interested in supporting Jonathan's Journey can be found on his website.