Pedaling for Hope: Help Corporal Drake Ride Forward

Marine veteran Cpl. Drake attended the August HOOVES healing intensive, a pivotal experience in his journey toward mental wellness. During this program, he participated in the Miles 2 Freedom Cycling initiative, where he was given a special fat bike to ride by program founder Justin Held. This wasn’t just any bike—it was donated by the family of an Army veteran Christian Jones, who tragically died by suicide. In their grief, the family wanted the bike to carry on their son’s legacy, helping other veterans find hope and prevent the same fate.

For Cpl. Drake, that bike became a lifeline. As he pedaled through the countryside, something shifted deep inside. He experienced a profound change in his perspective on life, and since that ride, the dark cloud of suicidal thoughts has not returned. The bike, once a symbol of loss, became a beacon of hope and healing for him.

Now, Cpl. Drake wants to continue the journey that began on that bike. He dreams of owning his own fat bike, just like the one he rode during the program. More than just a mode of transportation, it represents his commitment to raise awareness about veteran suicide, spreading hope and inspiring others on the brink of despair.

We need your help to make this happen. Our goal is to raise $2000 so Cpl. Drake can have his own bike and continue riding with purpose, showing other veterans that there is always a way forward. Together, we can help him ride toward a brighter future—and raise awareness for a cause that affects so many.