LONDON, ON — On Saturday, May 31, 2025, the London International Airport will host the first-ever Ride the Runway for Mental Health, a unique community event supporting mental health awareness and services. The initiative is presented by For the Love of Kate I Ride, in partnership with CMHA Thames Valley Addiction & Mental Health Services, and honours the life of Kate Harris, who tragically died by suicide in 2016 at the age of 32.
Founded by her dad and stepmom, Doug and Brenda Harris, this event continues their mission to give Kate’s story lasting meaning and to create spaces for open dialogue and support around mental health. In 2019, Doug completed a 2,200 km bicycle ride from London to Halifax, raising over $25,000 in Kate’s memory for St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation. Now, with the support of his wife Brenda and the local community, Ride the Runway marks the start of a new chapter.
“My hope is that by sharing Kate’s story, others will live and prosper,” says Doug. “This event is about connection, awareness, and action — all in support of those who may be silently struggling.”
Funds raised at this event will directly support CMHA Thames Valley, specifically designated to crisis services. Every year, CMHA Thames Valley connects with more than 4,000 individuals through its Mental Health and Addiction Crisis Centre, located at 648 Huron Street in London.
“Too often mental health challenges are faced in silence and isolation. Events like this are so important for raising awareness of critical services in our community and reminding everyone they are not alone,” says Kelly Morgan, Events Manager at CMHA Thames Valley. “We are incredibly grateful to work with Doug and Brenda as well as the team at the London Airport on this one-of-a-kind event, and look forward to seeing everyone on May 31!”
“When Doug and Brenda approached us with this idea and shared their inspiring story about their daughter Kate, we didn’t hesitate to get involved,” says Gerry Vanderhoek, Director of Commercial and Air Services at London International Airport. “We’re incredibly proud to launch our first-ever Ride the Runway event here at the airport in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association. As a central hub for our community, we recognize the importance of coming together not just for travel, but for meaningful causes that impact us all. Mental health matters—to our employees, our passengers, and our neighbors—and this event is a step toward breaking the stigma and showing our support.”
Event Details:
Location: East on Huron St. until the end. GPS address to use: 2537 Huron St, London, ON
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Attendees can ride, walk, run, hop, skip, or jump down a dedicated taxiway, parallel to a runway, offering an exciting, rare view of airport operations. Additional event features include:
- Classic Car Show (static display; registration required)
- Aircraft exhibits by the Jet Aircraft Museum
- Meet-and-greet delegations from the London Fire Dept and St. John’s Ambulance.
- Door Prizes, food trucks, music, and a welcoming community vibe
Participants are encouraged to register online in advance. Classic car owners are welcome to join the show, with vehicle setup scheduled prior to general admission.
For full details, registration, or to donate, visit: cmhatv.ca/home/ridetherunway2025
To read more about Kate’s story and this initiative, visit: fortheloveofkateiride.ca
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About CMHA Thames Valley Addiction & Mental Health Services
CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services (TVAMHS) is an integrated mental health and addiction agency providing community-based supports and services to individuals living in London and the counties of Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford and South Huron. CMHA TVAMHS is one of the largest branches in the national CMHA federation, with more than 650 employees and approximately 300 volunteers, serving communities across three counties with a total population of over 635,000. www.cmhatv.ca
Media Contact:
Kelly Morgan, Events Manager
Kelly.Morgan@cmhatv.ca | 519-668-0624 ext. 1076
About London International Airport
London International Airport is Southwestern Ontario’s easy and comfortable gateway to the world. As a growing aerospace hub, YXU is committed to driving economic growth through aviation, education, training, and commercial development. With convenient flights, affordable parking, and a focus on first-class service, the airport also proudly supports community engagement through events and partnerships.
Media Contact:
Laura Sanders, Marketing Lead
lsanders@flylondon.ca | 519-452-4042