Supporters & Fundraisers

Hi, I’m Kristen Bones, and I’m proud to be back for my fourth year supporting Buddy Check for Jesse with my personal challenge and fundraiser: 38 for 38.

When I was just 12, my world changed forever. My mom was killed by a drunk driver—she was only 38 years old. Every year, July 1st marks the anniversary of her death. At the time, no one really knew how to talk to me about what happened. I was told to move on, so I put on a brave face—but inside, I was struggling.

As I got older, I realized how little support there is for kids dealing with grief, trauma, and mental health challenges. And during the COVID lockdowns, it became even more clear how urgently we need to support youth mental health. I started speaking more openly about my own mental health, and in doing so, others began opening up to me too. It was a powerful reminder: talking helps—but only if there’s a safe space to do it.

That’s why I keep coming back to this fundraiser. It’s my way of honouring my mom, and helping to make sure other kids and youth don’t have to suffer in silence.

This year, I’m continuing my 38 for 38 challenge. From July 1st, I’ll be moving my body every day for 38 days—running, walking, kayaking, playing volleyball—you name it! Each day, I’ll commit to at least 38 minutes of movement to raise awareness for youth mental health and work toward my goal of raising $1,038.

And why Buddy Check for Jesse?

I was looking for a grassroots organization doing real work in the youth mental health space—and then I discovered Buddy Check. Founded by Dr. Stu Gershman, who turned the heartbreaking loss of his son Jesse into a nationwide mental health movement for young athletes, coaches, and families, this charity felt like home. As a parent with a child in organized sports, I know just how influential coaches can be. The mission of Buddy Check—to equip coaches with tools to start real conversations—just makes sense.

So, here’s where you come in:

✅ Donate if you can

✅ Share my page with friends and family

✅ Or better yet—join me and create your own “38 for 38 for Buddy Check” challenge!

Together, we can create more space for honest conversations, healing, and hope.

Let’s do this—for my mom, for Jesse, and for youth everywhere. 💚

I am a local Victoria Ultra-marathon runner.

Running Ultramarathons allows me to push myself to my limits and see what I am truly capable of physically and mentally. Running ultramarathons has so many parallels with overcoming, adapting and excelling in the face of life’s challenges and obstacles. It builds physical and mental resilience.

This year I will be raising money for Buddy Check for Jesse. One of the best things about trail running is the community that it builds. It allows a space for like-minded amazing people to come together in nature and support, inspire, and motivate each other as well as do great work in our community through fundraising and trail work. Buddy Check for Jesse hits close to home for me since my oldest son, Cole, played hockey with Jesse’s brother at the Victoria Racquet Club.

Buddy Check for Jesse taught the kids about mental health and how checking in with each other and simply asking how they’re doing can make a world of difference, especially to someone who may be struggling. I have battled with depression as have many of my close friends and family members.

Having friends, family, and community support is extremely important to be able to make it through these tough times. For many of us in the running community, running with friends in this welcoming and encouraging community is therapy for us. I hope that my running journey will help inspire others to get out there and work hard, crush their goals no matter what they are, and support one another to be the happiest best versions of themselves.

– Tanya Seal-Jones

Langley Minor Hockey Association and our 2nd Annual U15 C Eagles Classic Tournament proudly support Buddy Check for Jesse! The primary mission of Buddy Check for Jesse is to destigmatize discussions about mental health, promote compassion and connection, and inspire young people to reach out and support (or perform a “buddy check” with) their teammates, friends, and family members.

As a minor hockey association, we encourage the community to join us and spread the word to help destigmatize the conversation around mental health. If you are in a position to make a donation to this Buddy Check for Jesse fundraising page, we thank you in advance and appreciate your generosity!