As shared by Joel Feinberg, Director of Village Enhancements:
Back in 2016, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure with my friend Ryan. It all started with a friendly bet during a run at my store in Chicago. What began as a fun challenge turned into an incredible journey of training and racing.
We motivated each other through early mornings and tough workouts. But I knew Ryan was facing a much bigger challenge—his mental health. Training gave him a sense of purpose and clarity. After crossing the finish line, with beers and medals in hand, Ryan expressed how much the IRONMAN experience meant to him.
That race inspired us to think bigger. We talked about future races together. But then, in 2017, Ryan took his own life on his birthday. His passing left me heartbroken. At his funeral, his mother urged me to honor Ryan by doing another IRONMAN and raising awareness for mental health.
I wanted to accept that challenge right away, but life got complicated. Then COVID hit, and like many, I felt thrown off course. Yet, the mission stayed close to my heart.
In late 2021, I decided to take on IRONMAN Wisconsin again for Ryan in 2022. But just as I was gearing up, a new opportunity arose—I became the Athlete Development Manager at IRONMAN. This role came with demands that made training hard. Instead, I shifted my focus to my work, especially with TriClubs, using Ryan’s memory to guide me.
Ryan loved the community we had at the running store. It provided an escape from life’s stresses, even for a short while. That spirit remains with me. Whether in the Midwest or now working with a global team, my goal is to create spaces where athletes feel connected and supported.
I haven’t yet gone back to Madison, but I will. I will finish that race, for Ryan.
I share this story to honor my friend and to highlight the importance of mental health. Ryan’s struggle is a truth we can’t ignore. We must keep talking about these issues to help others.
Research shows that open conversations about mental health can significantly reduce stigma. According to a recent report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness each year, highlighting that we are not alone in these battles. Sharing stories can forge connections, drive change, and inspire others to seek help.
Let’s continue the discussion about mental health and support each other on this journey.
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