Schaefer completes transnational run for mental health awareness

Jeremy Schaefer of Springfield set a goal to run across the country. On Wednesday, he accomplished that goal.
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Vt. man completes transnational run for mental health awareness By Christian Avard | Mar 27, 2014 Share on facebook Share on gmail Share on blogger Share on print More Sharing Services 0 Source: COURTESY PHOTO Jeremy Schaefer, of Springfield, Vt., ran thousands of miles to raise awareness for mental illnesses. The journey came to an end on Wednesday at Dunes Park in San Diego, Calif. He is seen here relaxing with his three-wheeled companion, "Goose." SAN DIEGO, CALIF. — Jeremy Schaefer of Springfield set a goal to run across the country. On Wednesday, he accomplished that goal. Since Nov. 4, 2013, Schaefer has been traveling by foot to raise awareness (and money) about mental illnesses. Schaefer, who struggles with depression, was diagnosed with bipolar and attention deficit disorder. The journey came to end at Dunes Park in San Diego, Calif. He ran thousands of miles, met wonderful people, talked about the cause and most of all, proved to himself that no matter what one's struggles are, anyone can accomplish great things. “I wanted people to know there is a better life and a light at the end of the tunnel for all of us,” Schaefer said in a phone interview. Schaefer began his journey in Hunting Island, S.C. He was accompanied by his companion, “Goose,” a three-wheeled stroller that carried his personal belongings. In the last four months, Schaefer ran through South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. The final destination was supposed to be San Francisco but blown out tires, bad weather and plenty of visits along the way took up time. The closest city on the west coast was San Diego and Schaefer pointed Goose in that direction. The last 25 miles of the journey began at Pio Pico Campground in Jamul, Calif. A group of runners joined him, including a man named “Barefoot” Jake Brown. Brown, known for running barefoot, helps transcontinental runners find food and shelter during their runs. Brown assisted Schaefer during his run as well.

 Schaefer reached Dunes Park at approximately 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. He was greeted by his hometown friend, Alanna Lynch, and then jumped into the ocean with Goose. “When I got to the beach I was overwhelmed. There was no finality. I'm still reeling from all the emotions I'm going through right now,” Schaefer said. News of his successful journey made it all the way back home in Vermont. Schaefer's Facebook page was inundated with congratulatory messages from all over the country. 

His sister, Crystal Schaefer of Grafton, was overwhelmed with emotions because she said her big brother showed everyone that no mountain is too high and all dreams are achievable. “I am beyond proud,” she said. “He has the courage to stand up for a very important cause that people are embarrassed and ashamed of. People don't talk about this. He had the courage to take that chance. He made an impact.” Proceeds from Schaefer's run will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Springfield Family Center. To donate visit HYPERLINK "http://www.gofundme.com/"www.gofundme.com and type in “Jeremy's Pretty Big Run” or go to HYPERLINK "http://www.rockethub.com/"www.rockethub.com and type in “Pretty Big Run.” 2014TopNewStories