Lansing resident Woody Ellis has embarked on a remarkable 2,000-mile hiking journey aimed at raising awareness for mental health. Starting on September 2 at the Mackinac Bridge, Ellis plans to traverse a diverse route extending from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan through Wisconsin and possibly south to Louisville, Kentucky, or even Canada. His itinerary is intentionally flexible, reflecting his desire for an open-ended adventure.
Ellis is partnering with six mental health organizations that address issues such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental illnesses. His fundraising goal is to generate at least $1,000 for each organization during his trek.
The decision to support mental health organizations is deeply personal for Ellis, who has witnessed mental illness in his own family and among friends. His experiences include dementia, schizophrenia, suicide, and depression. Ellis is motivated by a desire to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness and provide support to those who feel isolated.
“There’s a negative stigma associated with mental illness that often leads people to feel ashamed and reluctant to talk about it,” Ellis said. “I want to help break that stigma and show people that they’re not alone.”
Ellis, who has experienced significant personal loss and heartache, views this trek as a way to combine his love for hiking with a meaningful cause. He acknowledges the emotional weight of leaving family and friends behind but feels driven by recent experiences with mental illness among his loved ones.
“The desire to embark on this journey comes from seeing how mental illness has impacted my family and friends,” Ellis explained. “I wanted to find a way to explore and follow my passions while supporting causes that are close to my heart.”
For this trek, Ellis is using a HipStar trailer to carry his gear, which includes a sleeping bag, hammock, pillow, and sustainable equipment. This choice reflects his commitment to minimizing physical strain and environmental impact, a principle he adheres to with a “leave no trace” ethos.
Ellis’s previous travels span multiple continents, including Morocco, Taiwan, British Columbia, Tokyo, England, and Turkey. His travel philosophy emphasizes engaging with locals and strangers, fostering connections through shared experiences.
“I cherish the interactions with people I meet along the way,” Ellis said. “One of my favorite memories is sharing a meal with a group of new friends, learning their language, and enjoying each other’s company.”
During his journey, Ellis plans to contribute to local communities by exchanging tasks for assistance. Past examples include preparing dinner in exchange for access to hammock-supporting trees and working on a farm or washing dishes at a restaurant.
Ellis’s flexible approach to his itinerary allows him to fully embrace spontaneous opportunities for connection and learning. “I want to remain open to new experiences and interactions,” he said. “Having a rigid schedule would limit my ability to seize these moments.”
Ultimately, Ellis aims to achieve personal growth, pursue his passions, and uphold his values through this trek. He views this journey as a starting point for future adventures and is committed to completing it sustainably.
“I’m incredibly excited about this journey,” Ellis said. “This is just the beginning of what I hope will be many more adventures to come.”
Related topics:
