Ocean Beach Holds Inaugural Suicide Prevention Run to Honor Local Skateboarder and Musician
Ocean Beach, a close-knit community in San Diego, came together on Sunday to host its first Suicide Prevention Run in remembrance of Ryan Bowers, a beloved local skateboarder and musician who tragically passed away three years ago. The event aimed to raise awareness about mental health issues and eliminate the stigma surrounding them.
When news spread about Bowers’ untimely death by suicide, it left the community in shock. Despite his struggle with mental health, Bowers had seemed to be doing well, and his passing came as a total surprise to many. Remembered as a talented skateboarder and rapper, Bowers had fit in effortlessly with the older kids, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
In order to honor Ryan’s memory, Shane Hardin, owner of Hodad’s, a popular local establishment, took the initiative to organize the suicide prevention run. The route of the run followed the very streets where Ryan grew up, symbolizing a journey of reflection and unity within the community. The event garnered immense support, with approximately 400 people signing up to participate. The funds raised from the run were donated to the Hodad’s Foundation.
Victoria Bowers, Ryan’s mother, expressed her gratitude towards Hodad’s Foundation for their invaluable support in organizing and sponsoring the event. She acknowledged that while she wasn’t able to save her son, she hopes that through initiatives like this run, the community can extend a helping hand to others who may be struggling with their mental health. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging their pain and reminding them that they are not alone.
The organizers plan to make the suicide prevention run an annual event as a continuing tribute to Ryan’s memory. Additionally, Hodad’s has displayed Ryan’s skateboard on the walls of their establishment, serving as a permanent physical testament to his life and passion.
In a bid to provide support to individuals facing mental health crises, the San Diego Crisis Hotline operates 24/7 and can be reached at (888) 724-7240. Additionally, individuals can call 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Ocean Beach’s inaugural Suicide Prevention Run in honor of Ryan Bowers stands as a testament to the immense strength of community support and compassion in overcoming the challenges posed by mental health issues. By coming together to discuss and address these sensitive topics, it is hoped that the stigma surrounding mental health will diminish, ensuring that no one feels alone during their darkest moments.
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[Meta tags: Ocean Beach, Suicide Prevention Run, Ryan Bowers, mental health, Hodad’s Foundation, San Diego Crisis Hotline, Suicide and Crisis Lifeline]
