Save the date for the upcoming Let's Walk It Out event scheduled for April 11-20. In the ongoing battle against veteran suicide, Let's Walk It Out - 222 Mile Ruck March Inc. stands as a non-profit corporation committed to dismantling the stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress and suicide. The organization's mission is clear: prevent veteran suicide through a public health approach, fostering collaboration, awareness, and intervention. At the core of Let's Walk It Out's philosophy is the recognition that those who have served, including military, Veterans, Law Enforcement, and First Responders, often bear burdens that can lead to silent struggles. While physical pain may find relief through rest and medication, emotional anguish poses a more complex challenge.

The Let's Walk It Out march, a grueling 222-mile journey from Fayetteville to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and back, aims to mirror the mental strain experienced by our nation's silent heroes.
It is a symbolic testament that, despite the indelible marks left by a life of service, no hero should face their struggles alone.

In a recent interview, JP Cervantes, the organizer of LWO notes, "Sometimes the deepest scars are the ones we can't see. Recognizing physical injuries is one thing, but spotting the emotional aftermath of trauma in someone we care about can be much harder."

The march's physical demands are intentional, pushing participants to their limits while encouraging a deeper understanding of the emotional toll often endured silently.

Despite these challenges, LWO emphasizes the importance of seeking help for emotional distress, affirming that the organization shall not be held liable for any injuries, accidents, or fatalities resulting from the ruck march. Ryan Oldenburg, a devoted member and participant of LWO shared a poignant experience from the march.

A young girl handed him a gratitude note saying, "Thank you for what you're doing because I had those ideas in the past." This decisive encounter underscores the march's profound impact, fostering a connection that transcends the physical challenges.

LWO invites everyone to be part of the solution as a testament to their commitment. The organization collaborates with Red 7 Tees to offer high-quality merchandise, including hoodies, t-shirts, hats, silkies, and tanks, all designed to raise awareness and support the cause. Visit https://letswalkitout.red7tees.com/ to contribute to the mission.

Interested participants are welcomed with open arms. While registration is not mandatory, a signed liability waiver is required for participation. Service dogs are permitted, with their owners responsible for their care. No animals are allowed in LWO’s vehicles.

LWO is not just an event; it's a community-driven initiative focused on mental health mindfulness. To get further details and express interest, contact Kristin, the logistics coordinator, at kristin@letswalkitout.org. Your involvement in LWO is more than an act of participation, it's a decisive step towards breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues and preventing veteran suicide. Join the mission, support the cause, and let's walk it out together.

LWO extends support beyond the march itself. The organization prominently features the NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE, reinforcing that no one is alone.

Individuals are encouraged to seek help, with the lifeline available 24/7 at 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Additionally, the website offers a live chat option for those who prefer an alternative means of support: https://www.letswalkitout.org/