Tylar Bittner

Tylar Bittner's Fundraiser

Stronger Together. image

Stronger Together.

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$2,068 towards $1,500

As I sit here to write this, I can't believe it has nearly been a year since I wrote this last time. 2023 started with the loss of my aunt which was followed way too quickly by the loss of my uncle. As 2023 progressed, it turned into a year filled with grief, heartbreak, fear, and so much change that it makes me dizzy just thinking about it now. All the more reason I feel driven to share my story and raise money for Bigger Than The Trail while I train for the 2024 Banff Marathon.


Beyond the tumultuous parts of 2023, it was also a year of growth, self-awareness, clarity, and reflection. Things I don't think I would have been able to achieve or feel if it hadn't been for my incredible support system and therapist. I feel privileged to have grown up in a home that normalized mental health and to have access to a psychologist regularly. I know how important these two pieces are to my healing and growth.


That is why I am raising money for Bigger Than The Trail (BTTT) - an organization I became an ambassador for last fall. BTTT seeks to raise awareness around mental health and provide free counseling services to increase accessibility for those in need. I know how scary it is to take that first step in getting help and want to pay forward the support and love I had when I started on this journey. If nothing more than to say I see you and you are brave.


This year, I am running the Banff Marathon which will be my second full marathon race. The support I received last year was so incredibly moving and was beyond my wildest dreams. I hope to continue to lean on my community to make a small (but mighty) impact on those who need our help. We are stronger together.

This year, I am dedicating my run to my mom, my uncle, my aunts, and my pal, Julian.

With love and so much gratitude,
Ty

*Please note, that BTTT is a charity based out of the United States. Donation amounts are listed in USD however, you will be charged in CAD (if you are based in Canada). Additionally, due to the US origin of BTTT, tax receipts cannot be issued for your donation. However, the services provided by BTTT are accessible to Canadians as the counseling services are hosted online (through BetterHelp). Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or concerns on this.*