My name is Vince Thomas and I have partnered with Rimrock Trails to raise awareness on mental health and suicide prevention through the Eugene Marathon’s Run for a Reason program. These past three years have been very challenging for all of us, especially when it comes to mental health. 

My best friend Kiefer tragically took his own life on October 3rd, 2021, and it was such a shock to all those who were close to him. Kiefer was an amazing friend, brother, son, and overall human being. Kiefer and I met at the University of Oregon through our fraternity. He came off shy and soft-spoken, but as you got to know him you realized how kindhearted and full of life he was. Kiefer was a goofball in every sense of the word, and we would get into all sorts of shenanigans over the years in Eugene. 

Kiefer had always struggled with mental health, but after graduation, it became more evident. Then with pandemic it only exacerbated the situation until he couldn’t take it anymore. You would never think that behind Kiefer’s big goofy smile, he was struggling so much, but it is extremely difficult to show vulnerability even to the ones that are closest to you. This is why I have partnered with Rimrock Trails because of their work in helping people become aware of how fragile we can become when things aren’t going our way and providing education and resources to help those in need get through difficult times. We all struggle with mental health, however, not all of us understand that it's okay to and that it's perfectly normal to seek help whether it be professional or just talking with a friend. I am running in Kiefer’s honor, but my hope is that through our efforts we can help those who are lost find their way again.

Thank you for your support!