On Saturday, American Legion bikers from both the U.P. and Michigan’s Lower Peninsula made a stop at Newberry as part of the From Hell to Paradise Ride. The ride’s objective is to increase awareness about PTSD in first responders and veterans. Approximately 500 riders gathered at Newberry’s American Legion for lunch. Scott Igo, the event organizer, stated that the journey perfectly symbolizes PTSD.
Igo expressed that living with PTSD can be a personal hell, and individuals affected by it constantly strive to find their own happy place or personal paradise.
ZeroDuck30, a non-profit organization, benefits from the ride’s fundraising efforts. According to Anthony Jurich, the president of the organization, a staggering 22 veterans commit suicide every day.
Zurich emphasized the need to offer support to those who have already experienced difficult situations. “What’s done is done, and we can’t change that,” Zurich acknowledged. “But we can help them move forward and adjust to civilian life.”
Jurich’s organization offers three distinct programs, including duck hunting, cornhole, and motorcycling, to provide veterans with a source of relief. Having experienced a mental health crisis himself, Jurich emphasizes the importance of seeking help and cites a single phone call as the catalyst that saved his life.
Zurich firmly believes that if the method worked for him, it can also help other veterans to persevere. He emphasized that the presence of these brave individuals is essential for the betterment of society, and they deserve to live long and healthy lives. “This place,” he said, “is gonna be a better place with them than without them, and we would rather our vets and first responders be around for a long time.”
According to Igo, they plan on riding for an additional five hours on Saturday, taking backroads and scenic routes.
Igo expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support received for the event, saying, “It’s truly amazing to witness the amount of support we’ve gained. This event is a great initiative, and I sincerely hope we can continue it in the future. Our main goal is to provide assistance to veterans and help reduce the number of suicides from 22 a day to zero.”
The group is set to travel to Sault Ste. Marie after their stop in Paradise for a special ceremony. During the event, various awards will be presented to participants, including recognition for the Best Bike and Oldest Veteran Rider.
