Special to the Sydenham Current
Hard Miles is a 5/10k walk/run/bike event aimed at raising funds for mental health initiatives in the first responder and agriculture communities, in memory of Dalles Bergsma.
From his early childhood, Dalles had a deep-rooted passion for farming.
Starting with a small flock of six laying hens and eventually purchasing his own farm on his eighteenth birthday, he wholeheartedly embraced the farming life.
He considered himself incredibly fortunate to marry his high school sweetheart and settle down on the farm.
Alongside farming, Dalles was a dedicated member of the Dawn Euphemia Fire Department and actively involved in his church.
Tragically, our family was shattered when Dalles took his own life on November 23, 2020. We had no inkling of the immense stress he experienced in his farming occupation, the weight of distress he concealed behind his humor, or the silent anguish he endured from witnessing traumatic events as a First Responder.
Unaware of the compounding challenges faced by farmers working in isolation and the emotional toll on First Responders, we were blindsided by the depth of our loss. However, through prayer and reflection, we have found purpose in serving others who face similar struggles. In honor of Dalles, we have established a charity called “Three Oaks Cabin” to provide mental health support and respite for Farmers and First Responders in our communities. We are currently constructing a respite log home on the family farm, where individuals can find solace, reflect, and realign their goals and values. We anticipate the cabin to be ready to welcome guests by October 2023.
Organized by Dustin Bergsma, the Hard Miles Run will take place on June 17, 2023, at Mitchell’s Bay. The race will commence at 10 am.
All proceeds from the run will contribute to the Three Oaks Cabin build and I’ve Got Your Back 911.
To register, please visit: https://raceroster.com/events/2023/74838/hard-miles
For more information about the Three Oaks Cabin, visit: https://www.threeoakscabin.com/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hard_miles_actual/
