GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) -Dozens of motorcyclists gathered at Gainesville Harley-Davidson Sunday morning, dressed in suits, ties and vintage riding gear for the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.
The global event raises awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer research. For organizers Faren Healey and her husband Camden Briscoe, this year’s ride carried a deeper meaning.
Earlier this year, Camden was involved in a traumatic motorcycle accident that led to the loss of his leg. Faren said their motorcycle community stepped in to support them through every step of his recovery.
“We would not be this far in his recovery process if it weren’t for our community, and we want other people that may be struggling or suffering through something to feel comfortable talking about it,” Healey said.
Faren said that experience is one of the reasons they continued organizing this year’s ride — to show men they don’t have to suffer in silence.
Camden said returning to the ride after his accident was emotional but also a reminder of the support system around him.
“There’s something about when a bunch of guys get together for the same purpose… that camaraderie just kind of naturally develops,” Briscoe said.
Roger Wilson, another rider, said after leaving the military and moving to Newberry, finding community through riding helped him connect with others. He said events like this can give men a safe space to talk about what they’re going through.
“It’s okay to need help. It’s okay to ask for help. It doesn’t make you weak… it just makes you a man to go out and ask for help,” Wilson said.
Organizers said they hope the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride continues breaking the stigma around men’s mental health.
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