‘For the Love of Kate’: Runway ride shines light on mental health in memory of Londoner

The first ever ‘Ride the Runway for Mental Health’ event was held at London International Airport in support of the CMHA on Saturday, CTV's Reta Ismail reports.

Warning: This article contains mentions of suicide. Take care when reading.

The first ever ‘Ride the Runway for Mental Health’ event was held at London International Airport in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).

The family-friendly event was put together by Doug Harris and his family in honour of his late daughter Kate, who died by suicide after struggling with mental health for years.

“My daughter Kate was a beautiful, bubbly, 32-year-old member of the Canadian Armed Forces stationed in Halifax. On the surface, nobody would have imagined that she was suffering internally with mental health issues,” said Kate’s father, Doug Harris.

Dozens of people gathered to take part, by riding their bikes, walking, or running around a section of the runway at the London International Airport near the Jet Aircraft Museum. Several classic cars were also showcased on the runway.

“Events like this are so important, because in addition to the money raised, it also spreads more awareness of the types of help that are available to people,” said Kelly Morgan, Events Manager & Communications at CMHA.

Since her passing in 2016, Kate’s family has been active in spreading awareness and raising funds for mental health. In 2019, Kate’s father Doug cycled over 2,200 kms from London, Ontario (Kate’s birthplace) to Halifax, NS (where Kate lived and died), raising over $25,000 in support of London Ontario’s St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation.

“We didn’t want her death to be in vain, we wanted to help other people. She helped other people, she just couldn’t get the help herself,” said Brenda Harris.

Kate’s brother, Will Harris says it’s important to shine a light on mental health and end the stigma.

“My sister and I were very close. And, we had spoken at length when she was still around about her struggles, which, by her own words, started when she was about age seven,” continued Will. “To to be here with family and friends in the community in support of, raising some money for the, well, it’s the very least that we can do to honor her memory.”

Learn more and donate here: For The Love of Kate I Ride

If you or someone you know is in crisis, here are some resources that are available.

Canada Suicide Prevention Helpline (1-833-456-4566)

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (1 800 463-2338)

Crisis Services Canada (1-833-456-4566 or text 45645)

Kids Help Phone [phone])

If you need immediate assistance call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.