Chris and Ryan's friendship began in the unlikeliest of places—online, during the COVID-19 lockdown. An interest in the game Call of Duty: Warzone brought them together, but it was their shared life experiences and mutual support that forged an unbreakable bond. Over time, their late-night gaming sessions evolved into deep conversations about life, mental health, and personal struggles, transforming casual gaming teammates into lifelong friends.

For Chris, the pivotal moment was when Ryan offered unwavering support following the loss of his stepmom. For Ryan, it was Chris's consistent kindness and the heartfelt dedication to their connection, particularly after Ryan lost his mother. These shared experiences of grief and mutual understanding became the foundation of their friendship.

What makes their friendship unique is the depth of their connection despite living in different states—Chris in Michigan and Ryan in Massachusetts. They balance each other: Chris’s calm, Midwest-nice attitude and consistent nature complements Ryan’s sometimes boisterous and candid Boston accent and east coast personality. Together, they navigate life's highs and lows with a shared commitment to supporting each other unconditionally.

Mental health has been an integral part of their bond. From the beginning, they found solace in being vulnerable with each other. They’ve supported each other through grief, anxiety, and life’s challenges, providing a safe space to share and grow. Their friendship serves as a testament to the healing power of genuine connection, and of course, online video games.

Chris discovered the TGO Challenge as a way to mark a milestone birthday for both men, the big 4-0. As they discussed it, they saw an opportunity to turn the journey into something bigger: raising awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. This mission is deeply personal for both, given their experiences with anxiety, depression, and the loss of loved ones by suicide. They aim to inspire others to speak openly about mental health and seek support.

Both Chris and Ryan have faced individual struggles. Ryan has contended with grief, addiction, and a near-fatal accident, while Chris has worked through severe anxiety and depression and suicidal ideation stemming from his parents' divorce. Together, they’ve supported each other through life’s trials, becoming stronger as a team. Preparing for the TGO Challenge has further strengthened their bond, with Ryan leading the route planning while Chris is leveraging his organizational and leadership skills for fundraising.

Chris and Ryan want their journey to inspire others, especially men, to break free from the stigma surrounding mental health. They emphasize that vulnerability is a strength and that seeking help is a vital step toward healing. Their ultimate goal is to foster conversations about mental health and create a lasting impact through the Empowered Trail Foundation.

Both men agree: Take it one step at a time. Lean on your loved ones, find a hobby or activity to lean into, and don’t be afraid to seek support. The journey toward healing might not be easy, but with persistence and a strong support system, it’s possible to overcome life’s challenges.