Aiming to foster a world where mental health is understood and embraced.
Real Conversations
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Authentic Connection
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Compassionate Community
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Real Conversations 〰️ Authentic Connection 〰️ Compassionate Community 〰️
Boyne Kindness Rocks Garden
Shredding the Stigma
One Kindness at a Time
Meet Ali
Alyssa (Ali) Rose Patrick (December 29, 1999 - October 15, 2023) believed that genuine conversations, authentic connections, and a compassionate community could change lives. She built community through her kindness, her love for the mountains, and her courage to talk openly about mental health.
When Ali was navigating her own mental health challenges, she created Surf the Earth on social media as a way to connect with others and break down the isolation she felt. Her vision was simple but powerful: if we talk openly about mental health, support each other authentically, and create spaces where everyone belongs, we can help people feel less alone.
Ali died by suicide in October 2023, but her vision lives on. Every person who finds connection here, every conversation that happens naturally, every life touched by this community - that's Ali's legacy continuing to grow.
We honor her by building the community she knew the world needed.
YOU DON'T HAVE TO FACE THIS ALONE
IN CRISIS? CALL OR TEXT 988
Mental health struggles can feel isolating and overwhelming. Maybe you're navigating depression, anxiety, or thoughts of suicide. Maybe someone you love is struggling. Maybe you're just not okay right now—and that's okay to admit.
Here's what we know: Connection saves lives. Community heals. And talking about mental health naturally—before crisis hits—can prevent tragedy.
That's why Surf the Earth exists. We create spaces where people can show up exactly as they are, share their struggles without shame, and find genuine support. No judgment. No requirements. Just real community and practical tools for getting through tough times.
IF YOU'RE IN CRISIS RIGHT NOW:
Call or text 988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential)
Text "HELLO" to 741741 - Crisis Text Line
Call 911 - For immediate emergency
View All Mental Health Resources →
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY:
You belong here. Join us for:
Visit the Boyne Kindness Garden - Coming soon to the Boyne District Library
MindAlign Meetups - Weekly wellness gatherings with real conversations
Shred the Stigma - Annual weekend event every April
Connection & Support - Find your people, share your story
Nobody heals alone. Let us show up for you.
Join Our Next Meetup → | Get Involved →
HELP SOMEONE YOU LOVE:
Worried about a friend or family member? Here's what helps:
Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" (It doesn't plant the idea—it opens the door)
Listen without trying to fix
Stay connected—check in regularly
Help them connect to resources
Take care of yourself too
ALI'S STORY REMINDS US:
Mental illness can strike suddenly. It can be severe. And it can be fatal—even with treatment and loving support.
But isolation makes everything worse. Stigma prevents people from seeking help. And silence keeps people suffering alone.
We're changing that. One conversation at a time. One connection at a time.
Ali believed "connection, connection, connection" could change the world. She was right.
Join us in building the community she envisioned—where no one faces mental health struggles alone.
Let’s Connect
If you have a story to share or need to connect with someone, email us at surftheearthmhc@gmail.com
Sign up here for communications from Surf the Earth.