My journey to the health to wealth movement
Growing up, I always thought of myself as lucky. Raised by a single mother who worked three jobs, she provided me with everything she possibly could. Despite her long hours, she never missed a sporting event and always made sure I had a place to call home. To the outside world, I had a good life—what could I possibly have to complain about?
But while I had no complaints, there were parts of me that felt empty. Instead of facing those feelings, I pushed them down and ignored them. As I grew older, I realized this approach wasn’t working. I struggled with confidence, lost sight of what I wanted from life, and felt no drive or motivation to reach my own version of success. Dropping out of trade school, I fell into a slump of drinking, and even dabbled in drugs, seeking a release that never truly came.
It was a dangerous road, one I knew all too well. I had seen my father’s life spiral as he chased highs through partying and harder substances. His path was marked by addiction, a path I could feel myself stepping onto.
Yet, something in me recognized that I wanted more from life. I felt a calling to break free from these patterns. Mental health struggles, especially among men, often go unspoken and unaddressed, and the ways we try to cope—through isolation, substance abuse, or worse—often lead us further into darkness. While I never reached a point of considering suicide, I did wonder if anyone would notice if I were gone. Who would care? Who would even show up?
It’s a painful place, one no one should have to experience. And while everyone can go there, men, in particular, are less likely to seek help, instead slipping further into isolation. That’s why I’m here today: to make a statement. To show that we don’t have to suffer in silence, that there’s a way out. I founded The Health to Wealth Movement to be that support, to offer tools and guidance for anyone struggling to find their way back to themselves, especially men who need it most.