Lindner Center of HOPE to Host Send Off for Bike Rider’s 2000 Mile Journey

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Husband to ride bike from Lindner Center of HOPE to Yellowstone National Park to Memorialize Wife’s Struggle with Depression

Kathy Klausing was loyal and devoted to her family. Sadly, her struggles with depression plagued her until her death in November 2014. Kathy’s husband of 28 years, Jack, misses her every day and wanted to do something to memorialize Kathy. In his mind, a plaque in her honor just wasn’t enough.

“We wanted to do something that would help give hope to others,” said Jack Klausing.

A cycling enthusiast, Jack has decided to ride his bike from Cincinnati, Ohio to Yellowstone National Park, about 2000 miles. Taking it a step farther, Jack has established a fundraiser for Lindner Center of HOPE’s mood disorders research efforts. Kathy spent two-and-a-half weeks at Lindner Center of HOPE in 2013 where she had a positive experience.

Jack and his family believe that raising money to advance the field’s understanding of depression will be a great legacy for Kathy and ideally benefit others who are struggling.

“There is a great deal of misunderstanding about depression. The common thought is people with depression should just get over it. People are afraid to talk about it when someone they know suffers from depression. That person is avoided. This only feeds the sufferer’s negative thoughts,” said Klausing.

Jack and his family have already raised nearly $16,500. Donations can be made directly to Lindner Center of HOPE by mail or online giving at https://webapps2.uc.edu/foundation/LCOH/DonationForm.aspx or through Crowdrise at https://www.crowdrise.com/MilesInMemoryofKathy/fundraiser/jackklausing.

Jack plans to depart on his journey from Lindner Center of HOPE, 4075 Old Western Row Rd., Mason, on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 9 a.m. Jack has established a website at http://jack-klausing.squarespace.com/ so those interested can follow his journey. He also hopes others will be willing to start the conversation about depression and share their journeys.

Click here to view Jack’s interview with WLWT.

 

Media interviews can be arranged with Jack Klausing by coordinating with Jennifer Pierson at 513-536-0316, please call to make arrangements.

Send Off Details for Saturday, July 11 at 9 a.m.:

Weather permitting:  Friends, family, and community members to gather outside – in front of the Administration House.

In case of rain:  Send off to take place in Lindner Center of HOPE Gym.

Agenda

  • WELCOME REMARKS:  Mary Alexander, Development Director, Lindner Center of HOPE
  • Depression &  Mood Disorders: Dr. John M. Hawkins, Chief Medical Officer
  • Miles for Kathy:  Jack Klausing
  • Blessing:  Tim McQuade, Spiritual Care Coordinator

Everyone to line the drive for the send off – rain or shine.