Why I Walk for NAMIWalks San Diego
Every walker has a reason, every step has a purpose, and together, our stories light the way for change. Meet our seasoned NAMIWalkers and discover the stories behind why they walk year after year.
Sue & Robert
"We first found out about NAMI through the Family-to-Family and Family Support classes, which really helped us navigate life with our son’s mental illness. We’ve been walking with NAMIWalks since 2013 and now captain the Escondido Family Support Team. The Walk is a special time for our support group: new members feel welcome, quiet voices find confidence, and everyone can enjoy being together. Seeing families, loved ones, and pets walking side-by-side reminds us that we’re part of something bigger. Hugs are shared, hope is renewed, and families are reminded that we are not alone either.
To any family member supporting someone with mental illness: there is hope. Talk about it, learn about the resources available, and know that support exists for you, too. We walk to show that support exists, and that together, we’re stronger."
Rodger
“My favorite part of Walk Day is coming together and hearing so many different stories. It’s powerful to be in that community. I walk to remind people that mental health is just as important as physical health. You wouldn’t shame someone for having cancer, and mental health should be no different.
To anyone struggling: don’t give up. Even in the darkest moments, you are not alone. Someone is there for you.”
Kara, Glen, Erica and Rachel
For the Grow Through Life Counseling team, Walk Day is all about visibility, connection, and hope. Kara shared, “You are not broken. You are human. Healing takes time, and even small steps forward matter. You don’t have to do this alone.” Glen added, “You have within you power that far surpasses the strength of your emotions. Seeking help means finding a collaborator to help you harness that force within you.”
When people see the team on Walk Day, Erica hopes everyone knows that there are always people ready to listen and help, and Rachel reminds everyone, “We see you. We are you.” Every person is welcome in this conversation, and our collective well-being depends on supporting one another.
Ann
"It’s my daughter that inspires me to walk for NAMI, and I want to recognize the many families who endure the hardships that come with supporting a loved one with mental illness. I walk because NAMIWalks gives me the support of a community that truly understands the pain of mental illness. When I ask family and friends to donate to NAMIWalks, I take satisfaction in knowing I am supporting an organization that works to end the stigma of mental illness. NAMIWalks reminds me that I am not alone and represents my hope to be able to talk openly about mental illness without fear of judgment. By walking, I know I am making a difference in the lives of persons with mental illness. I look forward to walking again in 2026!"
Leslie
“I walk in memory of my daughter, Sydney, and to show everyone that mental health struggles aren’t always visible. NAMI support groups made me feel less alone when I was grieving, and I walk to remind people that everybody struggles and nobody is alone. Mental health shouldn’t be a taboo topic – it deserves attention, care, and open conversation. To anyone struggling: don’t lose hope.”
