In 2013, we lost our beautiful daughter, Marie Jozefiak, in a moment we never could have anticipated. Marie was just 21 years old—spunky, friendly, generous, and full of life. She had a way of making everyone around her smile, no matter what she was doing. But like many young people, she sometimes struggled with anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions. Even though she was loved deeply and surrounded by friends, Marie felt unable to cope—and tragically, she took her own life.
 

We wanted to honor her memory in a way that could also make a difference for others. In 2016, with the support of family and close friends, we organized the first Ride 2 End Suicide, a charity bike ride raising funds for local suicide prevention and crisis intervention programs, including Common Ground. That first ride had 70 riders and the theme: “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.” Every year since, the ride has grown—both in participants and in the impact we’ve been able to make—and Marie’s memory has been kept alive through this mission. Since it was founded, this effort has raised over $310,000.
 

This May, I’ll be riding again—virtually—honoring Marie and helping others who are struggling to find their smiles. You can participate too: ride in person at Stony Creek Metropark, ride virtually from home, or make a donation to support this life-saving cause. Every gift, big or small, helps Marie’s Messengers spread a powerful message: there is always hope.
 

Your support funds programs and services that help people move from crisis to hope—and helps prevent other families from experiencing the heartbreak our family endured.
 

Thank you for helping me honor Marie’s legacy and make a difference in the lives of others.
 

With love and gratitude,
Terri