EUGENE, OREGON — A Eugene family is turning personal loss into community support by using skateboarding as a way to raise awareness about mental health and bring people together.
The event was organized in memory of Ben Moody, who died by suicide five years ago. This year would have marked his 21st birthday, and his family honored him with an annual skateboarding gathering hosted through The Ben Moody Foundation, created by his mother, Summer LeMay.
Skateboarding Becomes a Source of Healing and Connection
LeMay said skateboarding has always been deeply connected to their family and played a major role in Ben’s life from an early age.
“Ben was pretty much on a skateboard before he could walk,” she said. “He had a hard time in social situations, but at the skate park he would make friends very easily.”
The foundation was created not only to preserve Ben’s memory, but also to support others struggling with mental health challenges and grief.
LeMay said the mission has grown as more families face similar struggles.
“It doesn’t just stop with Ben,” she said. “There’s more loss, more struggles, and we really need each other. Events like this help people feel supported.”
Community Comes Together at Skate Park Event
Skaters of all ages gathered at the Eugene skate park to participate in the memorial event, riding together while reflecting on Ben’s legacy.
Participants described the skateboarding community as tight-knit and supportive, with many saying the event felt like a gathering of extended family.
“It’s like a big family,” said Ben’s brother, Drake Moody.
Others traveled from nearby cities, including Portland, to take part in the event and show support for the cause.
Heath Berg, who attended with his children, said the event resonated personally.
“Mental health support is really important to us,” Berg said. “This cause affected our family, and we wanted to come out, show support, and be part of it.”
Foundation Focused on Mental Health Support
The Ben Moody Foundation aims to create safe spaces where people feel less isolated in their struggles and grief.
LeMay emphasized the importance of connection and outreach.
“The main message we’re trying to spread is that we’re not alone in our grief or struggles,” she said. “You always have the opportunity to reach out to someone next to you.”
The annual skate event continues to grow, blending community action, remembrance, and mental health awareness through a shared love of skateboarding.
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