Dave Roche, Runner
My name is Dave Roche and I am a 33 year old runner from Victoria, BC. I have worked for the Canadian Coast Guard in various positions since coming on board in 2014, most recently as a Supply Technician providing logistics support to the Vessels and Light/Lifeboat Stations that service our vast Western Region.
I am beyond proud to have been selected to participate in this year’s Wounded Warrior Run BC. The people who are the focus of this wonderful event put themselves, their mental/physical well-being and their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting public safety and security. The toll this can take is tremendous and it is so important that these heroes have access to programs and services which can support them after going through things most people will never have to.
Running has been an integral part of my own mental health journey and recovery. After struggling with alcohol abuse for years, I had become completely depressed, withdrawn from life and was dangerously medically obese. After being told by a doctor that I was not likely to live past 30 if I carried on, I was able to quit drinking and start addressing some of the underlying issues which led me to that point in my life. Once I had a better handle on things, I followed the advice of my good friend and decided to try to take up running as a way to lose weight and to help manage my anxiety disorders. Fast forward to now: I’m healthy and happy. I am a daily runner, a marathoner and cannot imagine my life without running! The impact that this sport has had on my own physical and mental health is nothing short magical, and it is amazing that I now have the opportunity to help others by doing what I love.
As someone who has struggled with mental health issues most of my life, I am well aware of the positive impact that access to counseling, treatment and other support services can have on someone dealing with them. That’s why it is such a privilege to join this team and play a part in helping raise awareness and funds for these life-changing programs and services to get to members of our community who truly deserve and need them.
It is such an honor to be a part of this incredible journey and I cannot wait to meet all of you out on the road down island!
