30 Days, 30 Stories – A Bike Ride Across Italy
In April I’ll set off by bike solo across Italy for 30 days, with the plan to ride from the tip of Puglia’s boot heel in Italy’s southeast corner, to Rome, through Tuscany, across the Apennine mountains, through Venice, and eventually to the Slovenia border in the far northeast. I’ll raise money to support those facing mental health challenges, and I’ll share stories from friends and loved ones who are creating beauty through hope, courage, and connection in their own lives. Follow my ride, donate if you’re able, and enjoy these 30 stories over 30 days.
I’m riding for mental health, and I’m raising funds for Mental Health Minnesota, an affiliate of the national organization, Mental Health America. Their work is to “…advance mental health and well-being for all, increase access to mental health treatment and services, and provide education, resources and support across Minnesota.” My goal is to raise $2,500 for this cause, and I sincerely hope you choose to be a part of this. Thank you for considering donating to my fundraising campaign!
Hi! I’m Chris, a writer and teacher, cyclist and lover of meaningful connection. I’m also someone who’s dealt with major depression and anxiety throughout my life. In the summer of 2024 I combined my loves for cycling, sport, and writing with my passion for bringing attention to the challenges millions, like myself, have faced due to depression, anxiety, and other forms of mental illness. I rode my bike for 35 days across Germany, sharing my story and celebrating the beauty of the Euro 2024 European soccer championship, held that summer in Germany.
This year I’m riding across Italy, once again to raise money for mental health, but this time to share stories of beauty, courage, hope, and connection from friends and loved ones. Like last year, the ride will be grounded in “connection” – how we connect with the beauty of the world and how we connect with one another in ways to combat loneliness and to promote community, togetherness, and love.