On September 20th, I will walk in Belmar, NJ for the Out of the Darkness Community Walk, joining thousands across the country to prevent suicide and bring hope to those affected by it.
This cause is deeply personal to me. I’ve endured some of the darkest seasons of my life — losing my business, my home, my marriage, and being separated from my children. I’ve fought silent battles with disordered eating, crushing financial stress, and the grief of losing my father — all while feeling the weight of loneliness pressing down on me.
And yet, I’m still here. I’ve learned that healing and strength come from connection, open conversation, movement, nutrition, and the relentless courage to keep going.
Dwelling on the past doesn’t bring growth — but hope, action, and support do.
That’s why on September 20th, I won’t just walk 3 miles.
🇺🇸 I will carry the American flag.
🏋🏽 I will wear a 45 pound weighted vest.
🛷 I will drag a 50 pound sled — strapped to my vest to symbolize the weight we all carry.
👕 And I will wear the names of every single donor on my shirt, so none of us walks alone.
This journey is bigger than me. It’s about showing the world that no one carries the weight alone.
I’ve set a fundraising goal of $3,000 — and I’m already on my way. Together, we can get there.
👉 Please help me reach this goal by clicking the “Donate” button on this page. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Every dollar funds the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) — providing research, education, advocacy, and support for survivors.
And here’s how you can multiply the impact:
💚 Donate if you haven’t already.
💛 If you’ve donated, share this page with 2 friends, family members, or coworkers and ask them to join us.
💚 Donate here: https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/participants/Coach-Ray-Traitz/donate
Thank you for your generosity, encouragement, and for walking beside me — in spirit or in person — as we fight for hope, healing, and life.
Coach Ray Traitz