A year ago I was struggling immensely with my mental health. In the midst of significant life changes, the passing of an extremely close friend, watching two close individuals champion cancer diagnoses, being there for those struggling with addiction, the up's & down's of owning businesses, doing my best to give my all to my amazing wife, son, family, and everyone around me -- I found myself in the darkest place I have ever known. The walls began closing in quicker than I could control. I saw no way out. Advice meant nothing -- I saw no way out. I found myself withdrawing in all aspects of my life. I found myself talking to strangers crying for help even though I knew I could reach to those closest to me. I began reaching out to those I hadn't talked to in a while and saying goodbye to them. At the end of the day I would often sit staring blankly until I was jarred back by my wife's question "what is it?" It was nothing I could explain. In those dark moments I knew I did not want to be alive any longer. I saw no way out. This wasn't me. How did this become me? On better days I would be strong enough to tell myself this was not my story. I have lost family and friends to suicide and I could not let this be my story. I had more to write in this life. My son. My wife. My family. I had more to write in this life with them. 

 I have been blessed to have accomplished many amazing things so far in life. Success in the music industry, success in my businesses, a driven loving family, a beautiful wife and son, and many experiences some many never get to experience. In the darkness, I lost sight of it all. All of it except the slivers of light blurred in the dark that were my wife, son, and family.

 Having conquered, open heart and brain surgery, month's in the hospital, months of uphill physical therapy battles, and now 11 triathlon's -- determination, focus, and strength have been no stranger. Seeking help from those within Hope For The Day and those associated with HFTD began to give me footing. Regaining my focus, I fully committed to conquering this mental darkness. This darkness would not be my end. This was not the end of my story. I set the goal of competing in the Chicago Marathon, not as just another race, but as a commitment to myself. The road to the finish line would be long, strenuous, and sometimes full of doubt. The training regiment would be lonely and a chore at times. Everything the last year of my life has been. The only person to be held accountable would be me. I would conquer the pain, endure the struggle, and take heed of every moment reassuring myself that we can get through anything. 

 The Chicago Marathon finish line is one that I have never wanted so intensely. Training for this race has helped me overcome and cope with the mental health issues that almost ended my story. Joining the HFTD team is an honor and privilege. Hope For The Day has helped countless individuals with mental health and suicide prevention. 

 • Over 700,000 suicides are reported each year, with many more going unreported. 

 • 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. 

• In the U.S. alone, over 130 individuals complete suicide on a daily basis. 

 This race is for everyone that is struggling or has struggled. We are all on this planet together. 

 Together, we can break the silence around mental health. 

 This race is not just for me. 

- Lucas.