Pair to run rail trail to raise money for mental health

Two Kelowna men are training for a 50-kilometre run along the Rail Trail to raise funds for the B.C. Mental Health Foundation.

Andrew Garant and Cody Teichroeb are avid lacrosse players and all-around athletes, and they have a shared interest in their passion for raising awareness for mental health.

Their goal is to complete an ultra marathon along the Rail Trail from Vernon to Kelowna on May 10.

“The timing of this fundraiser is relevant to the times we face today, as mental health has been on a steady decline from the social isolation of COVID-19,” they write on their GoFundMe page. “One in four Canadians struggles with mental health issues during their lifetime.”

The issue is also personal. Garant’s wife works as a nurse in mental health and substance abuse and has seen firsthand the difference awareness, understanding, and empathy can have on an individual who is struggling with mental health.

Teichroeb’s passion for mental health stems from his wife’s experience with PTSD.

Since then, he has been passionate about erasing the stigma and starting the conversation.

The pair is hoping to raise $2,500.

To donate, visit gofund.me/55693eaa.