Join Sophie’s Squad: Championing Mental Health Awareness at Grandma’s Marathon

As Grandma’s Marathon approaches, mental health awareness is taking center stage. Sophie’s Squad, a nonprofit dedicated to discussing athletes’ mental health, is gearing up for the weekend’s races, inviting runners from across Minnesota to join them.

Aimee Wieland, whose daughter Sophie tragically lost her battle with mental health in 2021, is at the heart of this initiative. “I want kids to know there are people who care and will fight for them,” she shares. Her commitment stems from the pain of losing her 14-year-old daughter.

Sophie was an avid runner, and her passion inspired Aimee to run in Grandma’s Marathon. Although she had completed half marathons, a full marathon seemed daunting. However, she saw this event as the perfect opportunity to honor Sophie and raise awareness about mental health. “I always thought I couldn’t run a full marathon. But for Sophie, I had to do it,” Aimee says.

As she trains, Aimee wears special items to keep Sophie’s memory alive. “I made bracelets for her funeral to remind everyone about her light,” she explains. She also sports a necklace that signifies Sophie’s involvement in sports. “I feel she’s with me every step of the way,” Aimee adds, hoping to make her daughter proud.

Aimee is not alone in her mission. Ashley Hirt, another supporter, found Sophie’s Squad as her own daughter faced mental health challenges. “We wanted resources to help her connect with community,” Ashley states. Through Sophie’s Squad, they found valuable information and support, emphasizing that kids often learn better from peers than from parents.

Ashley and her daughter will participate in the William A. Irvin 5K as a way to advocate for mental health. She believes in normalizing these conversations. “The more we talk openly, the more lives we can touch,” she says.

For Aimee and Ashley, mental health awareness isn’t just a mission; it’s a necessity. They believe every event, big or small, plays a crucial role in spreading the message. Events like Grandma’s Marathon provide a significant platform, but every conversation counts.

Statistics show that mental health issues are on the rise. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 young people experience a mental health condition. This reinforces the importance of initiatives like Sophie’s Squad to foster open discussions and provide resources for those in need.

With the marathon approaching, the hope is to inspire others to join the conversation about mental health and support one another. By sharing their stories and continuing to advocate, Aimee and Ashley aim to create a more compassionate community.

To learn more about Sophie’s Squad and access mental health resources, visit their official site here.

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