On December 18th, 2024 an event occurred that would forever have an impact on my life and in the lives of many others. I lost a friend as did many. Others lost a husband, father, son and brother. In times such as this, when someone has been taken all too soon there are questions unanswered. The one question I asked myself a million times is why? Why would he choose to leave? However, what I didn’t expect is for the tragic event to not be in vain. Mental illness is real and can happen to anyone for many different reasons. Many in law enforcement unfortunately do not ask for help when it's needed and in my opinion, it’s primarily due to the stigma that surrounds mental health. The thoughts that they may lose their job, lose friendships, be “frowned upon”, being “labeled” all contribute to neglecting their own health mentally and physically. Along this path, I have discovered two very important things here in our state. The huge lack of funding for mental health and that 1 in 4 individuals suffer from mental illness. This is a staggering figure and something has to be done. My best friend and beautiful bride agreed so she set out to do something for awareness to be raised; she designed a license plate. Her original plan was for it to be approved through the legislature to be used for vehicle registration as a vanity plate. Unfortunately, this fell through due to a memoratorium being put in place to halt new plate designs in the state. Rather than let it stop her she decided it could be a way to honor Chief Stacey Mahan and raise funds for mental health to be donated in his name. Chief Mahan was a great friend, mentor and example of how to treat others. Any dollar amount is greatly appreciated and we thank you for joining us in honoring Chief Mahan and hoping to spread awareness for mental health. If your donation is $30.00 or greater we will order and send your very own commemorative license plate in memory of Chief Stacey Mahan. Thank you kindly, Ryan and Lindsay Doughty
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