Mental Health Matters
What We Learned When Life Slowed Us Down
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time set aside to bring attention to something that so many people experience, yet so few truly talk about.
For us, mental health is not a distant issue or a trending topic. It is deeply personal. It is something we have lived.
In early 2020, our lives shifted in ways we never expected. What began as a medical concern quickly turned into a long and complex journey—multiple hospital stays, surgeries, and life-altering decisions that would impact not just the body, but the mind and spirit as well.
My husband, Ron, faced serious vascular complications that ultimately led to the amputation of two toes. But what people don’t always see is everything that happens beyond the physical diagnosis.
The waiting.
The uncertainty.
The emotional weight of “what if.”
We spent weeks in hospitals—first in Florida, and then again here in North Carolina—surrounded by incredible medical professionals who cared not only for his condition, but for us as people. There were doctors who fought for his health, nurses who showed compassion in the smallest moments, and one RN in particular who felt like a steady presence of peace in the middle of it all.
But even with excellent care, the mental toll was real. For Ron, there was the challenge of processing physical changes, healing, and the unknown future ahead. For me, as his wife and caregiver, there was a different kind of weight—the responsibility to stay strong, to advocate, to support, and at the same time manage my own emotions, fears, and fatigue.
Mental health doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it shows up in quiet moments.
In exhaustion.
In overwhelm.
In the need to just pause and breathe.
In those moments, we learned something we will never forget:
Healing is not just physical. It is mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Why Mental Health Awareness Matters
There are so many individuals and families walking through their own battles right now—some visible, many unseen.
People navigating illness.
Caregivers carrying silent burdens.
Families adjusting to unexpected life changes.
Mental health is woven into all of it. Yet, it is often the part we overlook.
At RJ Strong Foundation, we believe that mental health deserves just as much attention, care, and compassion as physical health. Because the truth is—you cannot fully heal one without acknowledging the other.
From Experience to Purpose
Out of our journey came a deeper understanding—and a greater responsibility. What we experienced opened our eyes to the importance of:
- Support systems
- Compassionate care
- Community connection
- And honest conversations about mental health
It reminded us that people don’t just need treatment—they need encouragement, understanding, and spaces where they feel seen and supported. That is why this work matters.
Moving Forward with Intention
While we recently made the decision to postpone our upcoming ride due to expected weather, our mission continues without interruption.
New Ride Date: Saturday, May 30th
Check-in: 8:00 AM
Ride Start: 9:00 AM
This moment is not a setback—it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to keep the conversation going.
To reach more people.
To continue raising awareness and support for mental health.
A Reminder for All of Us
If there’s one thing this journey has taught us, it’s this:
You don’t have to carry everything alone.
Whether you are facing a health challenge, supporting someone else, or simply trying to make it through a difficult season—your mental health matters. Your story matters.
Your well-being matters. And there is strength in seeking support.
Join Us
We invite you to be part of this mission:
- Register for the ride
- Support the cause through donations
- Share this message with others
- Most importantly—check in on yourself and those around you
Because awareness leads to action.
And action leads to impact.
Together, we continue the journey—stronger, more aware, and more connected than ever. 💚
— RJ Strong Foundation