A Richmond resident is working with a local business to fundraise for a new mental health assessment unit at Richmond Hospital.
Ruth Kelly and her trainer David Kemp, owner of Proactive Health, are taking part in an indoor, 10-hour bike relay on Oct. 10 at Proactive Health, to raise funds for the hospital's emergency department's mental health campaign.
The campaign is raising money for a redesigned mental health space in the hospital's existing emergency department, which includes softer lighting, soundproofing, high windows for natural light and a dedicated mental health zone separate from the rest of the emergency.
The Richmond Hospital Foundation estimates the mental health care space will require $1.38 million with an anticipated opening date of August 2025.
Kelly told the Richmond News they are aiming to raise $5,000 at Thursday's event.
While she and Kemp will be alternating on a stationary bike from 8 a.m. through 6 p.m., community members are encouraged to join on a second bike in 30-minute intervals between 2 and 6 p.m. at Proactive Health.
The date of the event also coincides with Global Mental Health Awareness Day, Kelly added.
"The event is about breaking the stigma of mental health," she said.
"The funds are important, but trying to create some fun through community events and bring people together is more important.
"You never know where and how mental health has affected families and people across all generations and events from all different backgrounds."
Kelly added finding a supportive community can seem tedious to those who are challenged by mental health issues.
"I don't want people to go through these journeys on their own and I want more people to talk about things together and release some of that shame and stigma."
Community members can visit the event between 2 and 6 p.m. at 1128 - 13351 Commerce Pky. on Oct. 10 and to make donations online by clicking here.
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