Local man completes 100-mile run/walk to raise mental health awareness

KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) – Cameron Balser is fighting to break a stigma and start more conversations about mental illness and suicide.

However, before he could take one step to help save others he had to save himself first.

“About one year ago, I almost took my own life and then I went to the hospital and I was diagnosed with depression,” he said.

His family has seen tragedy strike in their own community.

Two of Balser’s high school classmates committed suicide only a month apart, but they never thought it would come knocking on their own door.

“Going to the memorials and hearing the stories of the family and then seeing our brother go through it was devastating,” his younger sister, Kayla said.

“Some people are sick and they don’t know what it is and that’s just the same with mental health,” Balser said.

Luckily, Balser found help and the strength to live on, but he wanted to make a statement to others just like him. He decided to make a 100-mile pledge for the cause.

Twenty-two hours and 55 minutes later, he finished his first journey.

He finished in enough time to celebrate his 30th birthday his twin sister, Chantelle.

Now with more support than ever, he wants others around the world to know they’re not alone.

“I know, finally, in my life, I’m doing the right thing,” he said.

He hopes his walk is a sign of hope; a message to keep others moving.

Balser plans to make his next journey on April 6, 2019.

This time he wants to go for 200 miles.

To learn more about Balser and his journey, click here.

To donate to Cameron’s Run Love Ride cause, email cameronbalser@icloud.com or call 765-508-2443.