The Falmouth Road Race is not just a test of physical endurance; it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit. This year, Mary Beth Burwood is running the race on #TeamSamaritans for a cause that has touched her life profoundly: suicide prevention.
Inspiration Behind the Cause
Mary Beth’s commitment to suicide prevention is driven by a personal tragedy. Ten years ago, she lost her cousin Kurt to suicide. Kurt, a 21-year-old collegiate athlete, was on the cusp of graduation when he lost his battle with depression. “Kurt was humble, hard-working, kind, witty, and had the greatest sense of adventure,” Mary Beth recalls. “He was a remarkable athlete with numerous accolades, but his greatest achievements were his kindness and sense of adventure.”
Kurt’s passing in March 2014 marked a pivotal moment for Mary Beth. In his memory, she embarked on her first long-distance run from West Barnstable to Sandy Neck Beach, a symbolic 7-mile journey that marked the beginning of her distance running journey. “Every race since then, when I feel like I have nothing left in me, I think of Kurt,” she shares. This race is not only a tribute to Kurt but also a way to support others who are battling depression, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggle.
Fundraising Journey
While still in the early stages of her fundraising efforts, Mary Beth has already experienced significant support from her community. “People may find it harder to donate to a cause like this unless their lives have been touched by depression or suicide,” she notes. This reality fuels her determination to raise awareness and funds. A standout moment in her journey has been the unwavering support from Kurt’s mother who has been a beacon of strength and advocacy for mental health, and a fearless cheerleader for Mary Beth
Impact and Awareness
Mary Beth hopes her participation in the race will elevate awareness about suicide prevention and highlight the invaluable work of organizations like The Samaritans on Cape Cod & the Islands. By sharing Kurt’s story and her own journey, she aims to provide resources and support to those who need it, both now and in the future.
A Message to Readers
With this determination, Mary Beth urges everyone to get involved in suicide prevention. “Together, we can reduce the stigma and ensure that no one has to go through this alone,” she emphasizes. She encourages people to be allies by listening and understanding when someone opens up about their struggles, to be advocates by promoting mental health care in various settings, and to be donors by supporting programs that assist individuals and families in crisis.
In running the Falmouth Road Race, Mary Beth Burwood is not just crossing a finish line, she is paving the way for hope, awareness, and support in the fight against suicide – all in Kurt’s honor.
If you’d like to support Mary Beth in her fundraising efforts, please visit her fundraising page. Every contribution brings us one step closer to preventing suicide and saving lives.
Check out the full #TeamSamaritans at https://capesamaritans.org/falmouth-road-race/.