Jada’s Journey to host walk at Half Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills, Illinois to raise addiction, mental health awareness

VERNON HILLS, Ill. (WLS) — A suburban mother is turning pain into a purpose, raising awareness about addiction and mental health issues.

Jada’s Journey is getting ready to host its third annual Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, Sept. 21 at the Half Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills.

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The nonprofit was founded in memory of a young woman named Jada, who died in 2021 at the age of 22, after years of struggling with drug addiction and mental health issues. Now, Jada’s mother is supporting other families, facing those same struggles.

Michele Pyster visited ABC7 to talk more about Jada and how this annual walk honors her memory. If you are interested in joining this year’s walk, visit https://jadas-journey.org/.