The weekend of July 15th and 16th, I am riding with The Psyched to Climb team in The Courage Classic. The ride is hosted by Children's Hospital Colorado and is one of their largest fundraising events of the year. Hundreds of riders, volunteers, patients, and their families come together in Copper Mountain for a 2 day ride to celebrate the brave kids who need the services provided by Children's.
In 2021, a State of Emergency for pediatric mental health was declared by Children's Colorado. The mental health crisis in Colorado continues to challenge children and families. Suicide is a leading cause of death among Colorado youth ages 10-19. Now 40% of teens in our state struggle with mental health challenges and less than 50% will ever receive ANY form of treatment. We've seen a 64% increase in mental health visits from 2019 to 2021 and 215% increase in suicide plans and attempts in our Emergency Department.
The Psyched to Climb team aims to drive awareness and financial support for the care of children and families who require early prevention, ongoing therapy, and access to the medical professionals who can make a difference for kids who need it most. Akin to the Butterfly Effect, we are striving to affect larger changes in our communities. We all have the power to change our culture around mental health. Help us to Break The Stigma.
If you are able to donate any amount, it is greatly appreciated. If it's not possible to financially support the cause at this time, please keep the kids of Colorado in your thoughts, prayers, energy vibes, etc. as they struggle through these unprecedented times.
Thank you for your support and well wishes as we ride through the rockies. Hopefully the weather will cooperate...
Brenda
