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Ride don’t hide: raising awareness about mental health in the Okanagan

Courtesy: Canadian Mental Health Assoication

KELOWNA — It’s estimated one in five adults will experience a serious mental illness, but according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, less than half will seek treatment.

Now the CMHA is trying to pedal the problem into the spotlight, with its second annual “Ride don’t Hide” event.

Preparations are now underway all across the valley for the community bicycle ride, which hits the road on June 22nd.

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Locally, Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon and Salmon Arm are all taking part.

The ride is open to anyone with any level of riding experience, both individuals and teams.

All the money raised goes towards public education and peer support services.

“These are initiatives we have that make incredible difference in terms of raising awareness in our community and preventing mental illness but they’re extremely hard to fund,” said CMHA Kelowna spokesperson, Candace Giesbrecht. “The community support to ride and help these initiatives that really help save lives.”

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Last year in Kelowna 180 riders took part and raised $14,000. This year organizers hope to double that.

All the money raised in each community, stays in that community.

Find out details on registration or any further information here.

 

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