SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — They’ve done it. The twelve runners who helped raise awareness for mental health have finished their journey from the Wyoming border to the Iowa border.
An energetic crowd welcomed The 437 Project’s runners at Fawick Park in Sioux Falls after their rigorous trek across South Dakota.
“It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before, and it was very emotional, very mentally and physically demanding,” 437 Project runner Kyle Blakeslee said.
“I just adore this,” 437 Project runner Dan Santella said. “I’m so blessed to be a part of it.”
Our own Dan Santella was one of the twelve runners. He shared stories with you throughout the journey and has more to come.
“Mental health is a real challenge for so many of our friends and loved ones, and to do anything to help put a spotlight on that, it’s a pristine honor,” Santella said.
The runners battled challenges like heat and lack of sleep, but in the difficult moments, it was important to remember why they were running in the first place.
“I would just think of people that I’ve lost to suicide, specifically veterans. I would just say their names in my head and think about my kids and my girlfriend and coming home to them,” 437 Project runner Israel Zinns said.
“I’m a pretty big advocate of first responder mental health. I work for the fire department, and I just believe that, for me personally, to be at my best, I need to take care of my mental health for when my community members need help,” Blakeslee said.
Another thing that kept everyone going was the team comradery.
“It’s a team effort. When the hills are tiring, and you’re exhausted, and you just want a Gatorade, your teammates are sometimes literally cheering you on from the RV,” Santella said.
Their work paid off. It resulted in over $322,000 donated to the Helpline Center.
“We have the record now, so there’s some work for them to do next year,” Zinns said.
A feat the runners accomplished together.
This was the 4th year of The 437 Project. In that time, it has raised over one million dollars for the Helpline Center.
