Peters Township Excessive Faculty senior runs towards hope and therapeutic with a 3-mile digital occasion – CBS Pittsburgh

PETERS TOWNSHIP (KDKA) – A Peters Township High School student picks up others and gives back while building funding and awareness for mental health initiatives.

KDKA’s Kym Gable met Jake Bode and his mother Suzie on the Montour Trail in Peters, where Jake likes to run and run to improve his mood and give him clarity. The 17-year-old senior is on the cross-country team and uses running as a form of therapy.

CONTINUE READING: COVID-19 in Pennsylvania: Winter Weather Affects Vaccine Supply in the Commonwealth

(Photo credit: KDKA)

“It was pretty tough on me and I know people who went through this too, and it was really important for me to get the message across that it’s okay to fight and it’s okay to go through it. It’s just super important to get in touch and get help, ”Jake said.

Jake created Destination Wellness 5K, a virtual event that raised funds for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Almost 200 people attended and donated nearly $ 2,000 to the nonprofit.

CONTINUE READING: Ohio suspect accused of shooting 2 boys to undergo mental assessment

His mother couldn’t be more proud.

“Your struggles, your weaknesses become your superpower. It will take you to amazing places to do that and help other people, “said Suzie.

“I will definitely be an advocate for this, and I will definitely continue to provide support and awareness to people who have problems,” Jake said.

MORE NEWS: Woman says she was kicked out of Ross Township Gym for trying to enforce the mask policy

KDKA wants to hear your positive stories. Click here to share.