Ohio Lawmaker Walking 72-Miles to Spread Mental Health Awareness

Senator Willis Blackshear Jr., D-Dayton, kickstarted his 72 miles walk on Thursday, May 14, 2026. It will take him four days to arrive to his destination at the statehouse in Columbus.

Blackshear's biggest reason is to spread awareness of mental health.

"Fighting for more legislation to be passed," Blackshear said. "As well as more funding for mental health initiatives."

The walk started inside the Dayton Metro Library and with a big effort to lift people up.

For Christina Grant, that mission is personal.

"In this day and age, where so many people are struggling, I believe that lifting people up is the only way that we can make a difference," Grant said. "This here is my daughter Jayda, and she struggled with her mental health for a couple of years and sadly in 2022 she died by suicide."

Since then, Grant and her husband, Anthony Grant, have been on a mission. They're trying to help families understand the importance of taking care of mental health.

Data shows there were 93 deaths by suicide in 2024 in Ohio, and that number dropped by 17% last year. Tony Coder, CEO of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, said spreading awareness helps.

"Ohio loses five people to suicide every day in the state," Coder said. "Although we celebrate the decrease in deaths from 2024 to 2025, even one life lost to suicide is too many, and our work is far from over."

Jay's Booth of Hope is just one example of the effort to help save lives.

From Jay's booth to walking dozens of miles, advocates say they can make a difference by using their voice and their feet.

"So, if everyone's aware of the resources and where they can go when they encounter somebody who may be struggling, they'll be able to offer support and get them the help that they need," said Dan Suffoletto, communications manager at Public Health Dayton Montgomery County.

One bill Blackshear is proposing is the Enact the Student Wellness Act. It would require schools to count mental health days as excused absences.

"I encourage people to continue to advocate," Blackshear said. "Reach out to your legislators, try to come out to the statehouse, show up in town halls; people need to hear from people."

Those in need of help can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Jayda's life is now part of a message, to help save lives and never give up.

"Talk with your loved ones," Grant said. "And to encourage them to get help and encourage them to allow you to walk alongside them, to get the help, because young people, they need advocates."

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If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.