Visit to Palm Bay Florida
Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 12:13AM We just got back to the panhandle of Florida after two days in Palm Bay. I must say, I was truly amazed by the commitment of Palm Bay to make positive strides to reduce suicides in their community.
Yesterday, I rode from the hotel to city hall with a full police escort. Lieutenant Dave Crispin also joined me, he is an avid cyclist and also lost his wife roughly two years ago.
I have to admit getting a police/fire department escort through town is really, really sweet!!! It’s pretty funny when they stop traffic in every direction for me to ride through.
(Lt. Dave and I)
After a quick interview, Azure and I were taken on an extensive behind the scenes tour of the city complex.
Last evening I spoke at the community teen center and this morning at the Suicide Symposium that was held at the Palm Bay City Hall. In an amazing and unexpected turn, the Palm Bay Mayor gave a proclamation and declared today October 30th Suicide Awareness day. If every community was as dedicated to trying to make a difference, as the city of Palm Bay has become I think that public opinion on suicide and mental illness would be vastly different.
In a very touching and heart wrenching moment after my speech, the mother of Taylor King a 14 year old who lost her battle with depression 4 weeks ago, asked me to wear a bracelet in memory of her daughter.
I have to be honest I knew that were would be lots of unexpected things along the way. Speaking with the many families who have suffered losses both recently and in the past was something that I was not prepared for. I don’t know if it is something that I could have prepared for even if I had expected it.
(Some of Taylor's family members)
To all of the families and people we have met, all we can say is that we are so sorry for your loss. Hopefully, our message can prevent other families from having to suffer through what you are dealing with.
As for tomorrow after a few days of rest it’s back to the grind for me. Key West here we come.
-Just Keep Pedaling
Reader Comments (3)
Wow! You have come so far... it's amazing to see the distance you've covered on the map. Hang in there... you're on the home stretch!
Happy Halloween from the W.I.!
Thank you Patrick & Azure for taking time out of your ride to stop by Palm Bay Florida to give your story. That is such a strong message that needs to be out to ALL schools so that the kid's that are in that dark place could realize that there is light at the end of the dark tunnell. Thank you for wearing Taylor's bracelet through the rest of your ride that means so much to our family. God Bless you and have a safe finish to your trip.
Your new biggest fan.
Jamie Elder.
making som good miles now!!!
May the wind be at your back (for once) and may you always be headed down hill.