"I try to do something with the tragedy," said Tom Budd at the annual Dillon and Payton Budd Memorial Ride in Kelowna on June 8.
Started in memory of his sons who both took their own lives, Budd said the event is meant to foster communication around mental health while raising funds for the Kelowna branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
"The rides, the walks, the runs are really just a way for people to come and show their support... Every family has been touched by mental health of some type," Budd said.
The event took place at Sutherland Bay Park with those completing the 100 kilometre ride taking off at 7 a.m. Cyclists had the choice of nine, 25, 50 or 100 kilometre rides. Others participated by walking or running six kilometres.
After, everyone was invited to stay for festivities in the park including food, info tents, a photo booth, bouncy castle and more.
Over 600 people were registered to walk, run or ride and more than $150,000 was raised through the event.
