March honors veterans, offers resources for people struggling with mental illness
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.
Lake County Veterans and Family Services Foundation’s eighth annual Ruck March is being held at a new location this year at Rollins Savanna in Grayslake.
“It’s easier to march on terrain as opposed to blacktop. It’s much prettier and a little bit safer,” said Laura Franz, executive director of Veterans Path to Hope.
The Ruck March is a 22-kilometer course starting at 20160 W. Washington St. at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14. Its length represents the 22 veterans estimated to die by suicide daily.
The event focuses on honoring veterans who have taken their own lives, but it also works to form a community.
“Coming together to be a part of something bigger is inspiring to people. If we bring together people that might be struggling themselves, that sense of belonging and connection and inclusion is helpful,” Franz said.
Anyone who would like to participate at their own pace can do so, as long as they complete 22 kilometers by Sunday, Sept. 22. The distance can be completed in any way, including walking, running, biking, or swimming, and from anywhere in the world.
“They can do it all in one day or they can break it up throughout the month. About half (the) people are doing it virtually and about half are showing up,” Franz said.
The foundation depends entirely on donations used to provide “help from those who’ve been there” for support services, counseling, program resources, and a sense of hope and purpose, according to Tim Sashko, president of the Lake County Board of Health.
Those interested in donating to the cause or signing up for the march can do so on the foundation’s website, give.lcvetsfoundation.org.
Adult participants can sign up for $44 and will receive a T-shirt, medal, and a Ruck Up 2024 donation page to raise money. Veteran participants pay $22, and will accept the mission of raising at least $220. Those younger than 17 pay $17 to participate.
The Ruck March is fulfilling for the cause and for participants’ personal health goals, Franz said.
Working the event for the past two years, she’s always inspired by watching people complete the 22 kilometers.
“You don’t think you can do it, and then you do it, and it’s pretty amazing,” Franz said.