You may need some imagination to figure this one out. I am going to tell you the story of a young Scottish man who has had quite a year.
He's the founder and president of a growing and dynamic Internet startup called Shark Dog. He was named Entrepreneur of the Year 2015. He's witty, intelligent and has a future brighter than a clear morning.
Then, what if I told you one night he got into his car and opened up his engine until he was racing at eighty miles an hour and the car flipped? What if I told you that he wrecked his car purposely? What if I said he was suffering from severe depression and just couldn't take it any more? He wanted his promising life to end.
You might say, "I understand. I've heard tragic stories like that before."
Josh in his hospital bed recovering from his suicide attempt.
But then, what if I told you that after spending a few weeks in the hospital that same young man is now organizing a global trip to eighty countries spread over six continents to exercise in front of historical venues–all in the name of suicide prevention and mental health awareness?
Okay, I understand that the second part of the story feels more like a Hollywood script for a 'feel good movie' than anything resembling reality. But that's only because you haven't heard about Josh Quigley yet.
Yes, Josh Quigley is his name and his campaign is called "The Tarter Explorer." Last week, he reached out to Mental Health Justice and asked if we would help tell his story. Now, asking us if we would tell his mental health story is like asking spring flowers if they would like some sun.
So here's Josh's story:
This video may shock or surprise a lot of people. This year I tried to take my own life after struggling with depression and mental health problems. Over the years we've all lost friends or family through suicide, because there's so much stigma around mental health and people are scared to ask for help or support. So I decided I wanted to go public with my story, to help other people who are suffering and encourage people to start talking about mental health. Not everyone will be as lucky as I was and it's time we done something about it. So I'm taking some time out of SharkDog, to go all around the world to promote mental health awareness. Please watch my video to hear about my global challenge. It's took me 6 months to get to a position where I feel comfortable talking about this, so your help and support would mean the world to me. I'd also appreciate if people could be kind enough to share this video to help me raise awareness. Thank you
Posted by Josh Quigley on Monday, November 2, 2015
We'd like to invite Josh and 'The Tartar Explorer' campaign to visit us in California to exercise for suicide prevention. Maybe jog across the Golden Gate Bridge? Maybe hike up to the Hollywood sign? We are open. If anyone else would like to invite him to their city, let us know soon as he's planning his trip now.
As for Josh Quigley, you've had quite the year. Here's to life and see you soon!
Mental Health Justice. No stigma, no judgment. Everyone is welcome.
Dolores