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In memory of his late wife and for mood disorder research, a Cincinnati man is biking west to Yellowstone National Park.
Jack Klausing, 56, is riding over 2,000 miles from Cincinnati to Yellowstone, all on a pedal bicycle, an endeavor that will take him over a month to complete. A difficult undertaking, to be sure, but Klausing’s resolve stems from a deep well of love and a firm sense of commitment.
Klausing’s wife Kathy lived with depression all her life, struggling with until her death in 2014.
Klausing said he wanted to do something to both memorialize her and to continue the journey of healing from his loss.
Through the Lindner Center of Hope, Klausing established the Miles in Memory of Kathy in memory of his wife and to benefit mood disorder research.
Klausing said raising money to advance the understanding of depression will be a great legacy for Kathy and a benefit for others who are struggling with similar illnesses.
“When people have depression, people want to walk on egg shells, because they’re afraid they’re going to say the wrong thing, or they’re going to go off on them, or that they’re going to make it worse. They’re afraid they’re going to make it worse,” Klausing said.
An avid biker for seven years, Klausing anticipates difficult days ahead on his ride, but said it is all worth it to commemorate Kathy’s life and continue her fight.
Klausing said he has already raised more than $20,000 for mood disorder research.
Klausing will begin his ride Saturday, July 11 at 9 a.m. from the Lindner Center. There will be a send-off ceremony that will include a speech from Klausing and remarks from Lindner Center staff about Klausing’s trip and depression/mood disorders.
Klausing has also established a website where people can follow his journey from Cincinnati to Yellowstone. It is unknown when exactly he will arrive at Yellowstone National Park.
