Hey all, 

As many of you know, I lost Alexander, last July. I haven't told many people of how exactly he passed, even though I'm sure some possibly knew (given his past history with addiction) or there were rumors; but that is beside the point. 

A lot of his addiction was tied to his mental health. For over a decade, he strived every single day to find a solution- whether it be medication, supplements, new research, new therapists, new psychiatrists, exercise, fixing his sleep schedule, journaling and documenting his regimen. During his finding of a solution, he would get frustrated, extreme anxiety, depression spirals, or even manic and I'm sure a slew of other emotions. Then when things weren't working- he would basically become a test bunny on himself and experiment with drugs, the latest, newest compound or supplement to try and better/solve his mental health crisis. Then there would be other times, just plain addiction or depression would roll in and he wanted to escape. 

During covid, Alex finally found a solution with an MAOI inhibitor. I won't bother to go into all the details, but it is an old school anti depressant medication, that is rarely prescribed and it was his last hope. This medication along with vitamins, daily supplements, group therapy, regular therapy - (style: dialectical behavioral therapy), journaling, healthy routine and exercise; became his cure.  I was and still am incredibly proud of him for how far he came and what he wanted to do with his life, he became a totally different person. When I heard he passed from his addiction, I honestly had no idea he slipped back into it. I had some hints here and there, but our lives/schedule was beyond insane at the time.  I knew it wasn't only the addiction but the stress of everything he was going through and not prioritizing his mental health/own well-being. 

With all that being said, I'm doing this race to honor his legacy, the battle of addition that millions face, and to help end the stigma.