The past few years have been incredibly difficult for me. Losing my son, Josh, in 2022 and my husband, Jim, in 2023 left me searching for a way to move forward while honoring their lives. This August, I’ve found one way to do that—by walking 50 miles in the 50 Mile March, a journey to support veterans facing mental health struggles and homelessness.
Josh faced these same struggles, and I know if a place like Community of Hope had existed for him—a place where transitional housing, mental health care, and job training were all available without stigma—his path might have been different. That’s why I’m walking. The 50 Mile March Foundation is building this very place: a one-stop campus where veterans can find the support they need to rebuild their lives. You can learn more about their mission here: https://www.50milemarch.org/.
The march is grueling—we walk from the capitol in Lincoln to Omaha, NE covering 50 miles in 22 hours, symbolizing the 22 veterans lost to suicide each day. And every step is filled with purpose. If you have a veteran in your life you’d like me to walk for, I would be honored to dedicate a mile in their name.
Your support—whether through a donation, sharing this message, or simply sending encouragement—means more to me than I can say. This journey is about healing, honoring, and helping others find hope. Thank you for walking this path with me.
With love and gratitude,
Susan