On June 19, 2022, I set out on a 2,000 km cycling journey from Pike Lake, Saskatchewan, to Quebec, carrying one simple but powerful question: What if I could? Two months later, I arrived in Ottawa—pedaling in honor of my brother, Craig, whose life continues to inspire mine.

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On June 19, 2017, I had received the phone call no one ever wants: Craig had passed away at just 57. He had lived much of his adult life with mental health struggles, at a time when these conversations were rarely spoken aloud. His death came only a year after my mother’s passing, and I was left navigating a deep wave of grief and questions.

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Today, I see Craig as one of my greatest teachers. His life—and my loss—planted the seed for my children’s book, What If You Could? The story follows a caterpillar who dreams of more, yet must choose which inner voice to follow: the one that holds him back in fear, or the one that calls him to spread his wings. This journey of courage and transformation speaks to the very choice we all face when stepping beyond our comfort zones.

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I believe we all exist on a spectrum of mental health. When we feel supported and well, we can more easily listen to that loving inner voice that guides us toward our true selves. My cycling tour was my own “what if I could”—an act of healing and hope, raising awareness and funds for youth mental health.

Ten percent of every book sale is donated to Jack.org, whose mission is youth mental wellness and suicide prevention. If you’d like to make a personal donation and receive a tax receipt, please visit www.jack.org.

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Have you or someone you love struggled with mental distress?
What if we could change this—together?

Thank you for your support in creating a world where mental wellness belongs to everyone.