March For The 22

Every step matters.

Every mile matters.

And on this day,

we walk for the 22.

“March for the 22” isn’t just another event on the calendar — it’s a movement, a reminder, and a call to action. It’s about honoring the veterans who fought battles most of us will never see, including the ones they faced long after coming home.

The number 22 stands for the estimated 22 veterans lost to suicide every single day — a heartbreaking reminder that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Behind that number are fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, and friends who carried more than their fair share of the world’s weight.

This year was the first time I truly learned what “March for the 22” meant — and it hit home. My husband, a Marine veteran, took the day off to join others in the walk. While he marched, our two boys and I stood at the end of our street, waiting and watching as the group passed by. We waved and cheered, hazard lights blinking as the walkers began their long trek from Havelock, NC to New Bern, NC. It was simple — but powerful.

We hold this walk close to our hearts, because for us, it’s personal.

A very good friend and brother to Cody lost his life to suicide. I personally only met him once, in Pensacola, while visiting my husband during his time in the service. He had such a friendly demeanor — the kind of person who made you feel welcome instantly — and he was full of humor. Even in that brief meeting, it was easy to see why he meant so much to Cody and to so many others.

He wasn’t just a name or a statistic. He was a friend, a fighter, a Marine who made an impact on everyone lucky enough to know him. And like too many others, he carried burdens that no one should have to bear alone.

Although I didn’t walk this year, I plan to join next year — for him, for Cody, for every veteran still fighting silent battles. Because sometimes the most meaningful steps we take are the ones we take together.

When you show up for a march like this, you’re not just walking — you’re standing shoulder to shoulder with those who’ve served, showing them that their struggles are seen, that their lives matter, and that their fight isn’t theirs to carry alone.

You don’t have to be a veteran to join the cause. You just need heart, awareness, and a willingness to act. Whether that’s walking a mile, donating to veteran mental health programs, checking in on a friend who served, or simply spreading the message — it all counts.

This march isn’t about sadness. It’s about connection, healing, and hope. It’s about turning pain into purpose and silence into support.

So, lace up your shoes.

Walk for the ones we’ve lost.

Walk for the ones still fighting.

Walk because awareness saves lives — and your steps can spark change.

If you’d like to support the cause, follow March for the 22 on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/MarchForThe22

their websitehttps://www.marchforthe22.us/

and other social media platforms to stay connected and learn how you can get involved.

And most importantly — if you or someone you know is struggling or thinking about suicide, you are not alone. Help is available.

You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Your life matters. 💚

Next year, November 11th — I hope to see you there.