Mental health and substance abuse issues are near and dear to Mitch Buxton’s heart.
With that in mind, he decided to take on an enormous task as a fundraiser for the Canadian Mental Health Association for the second year in a row.
Buxton, 26, who lives in Ladysmith, rode a stationary bicycle at Anytime Fitness in Chemainus for 24 hours straight from 3 p.m. Thursday, May 11 until 3 p.m. Friday, May 12. Other than a sore behind, he’s none the worse for wear and happy to contribute to the cause.
“The battle is ongoing and this year I want to help make a difference,” noted Buxton on his fundraising page. “Mental health and substance use continues within our communities.”
Buxton also cycled in memory of his uncle, Frank Buxton Jr., and already surpassed his $1,000 goal with $1,600 raised to date. Donations are still being taken until the end of the month and can be made here.
“Please consider donating to help those who struggle,” noted Buxton, who works as a nurse at a rehabilitation unit at Cowichan Lodge.
Completing this fundraiser wasn’t easy, but he had no intention of making it easy on himself.
“It was quite something,” Buxton said. “I had a lot of support throughout the 24 hours. There was probably only an hour when I was alone.”
Last June, he raised around $15,000 for mental health after cycling from Vancouver to Toronto in 20 days.
“I’m very proud of it,” said Buxton of his fundraising efforts. “I had a lot of support for both fundraisers so I’m grateful.”
He intends to do another fundraiser for mental health next year and is looking for ideas. “Hopefully, nothing to do with bikes,” Buxton quipped.