A Corunna family is preparing for a six-month hike in an effort to improve mental health resources.
Amanda Morton says they will be raising funds for a non-profit organization, launched in memory of their family friend Cody Smith.
Smith took his own life in 2013 at the age of 17.
"When we decided we wanted to do a long distance hike we wanted to do it for something that mattered," says Morton. "Cody's House is going to be somewhere that teens can go to feel comfortable and seek help and guidance. It's just a place that will teach teens that life isn't perfect and situations happen and how to deal with these situations."
The organization is still under development in Barrie, but it's hoped to provide counselling services, healing arts and physical activities like yoga and meditation.
Morton says she grew up with Cody's mother Kari Smith, who is running the organization.
"Since Cody passed away, it really hit home," says Morton. "Being a mother I can't even imagine having to live without my children."
The Mortons have set up a GoFundMe page for the hike and are hoping to raise $20,000 toward a permanent location for Cody's House.
Amanda will be hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with her husband Larry, starting at the Mexican border on April 20th. Their daughter Heaven-Lee will join them once she completes her exams at Sarnia's St. Patricks High School.
"When she mentioned this is something she also wanted to do it was great. We were thrilled and surprised. Most 16-year-olds don't even want to walk to the corner store let alone walk halfway through California, Washington and Oregon."
To cover the cost of the trip, the Mortons have sold their boat, second car and have moved into the basement of their home to rent the rest of it out to another family.
"We are giving up small sacrifices, but it's all for a good cause and we believe in what we are doing."
The entire trail is 2,650 miles long and takes six months to complete.
The family will be blogging and posting videos to YouTube throughout their journey.
-Written by Meghan Bond, Fanshawe College Intern