A QUEENSLAND mother of three is hitting Australia's highways in a bid to ride down the stigma associated with mental illness and suicide.
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Sandra Moran has embarked on an epic 36,000 kilometre journey around Australia aboard her Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.
She plans to stop in more than 300 towns to talk about a topic she says is being swept under the carpet by many people.
The 47 year-old talks from experience, having lost her son Jaie to suicide in April last year, just two days after his 22nd birthday.
Jaie's Journey roared into action in Melbourne on Sunday, ahead of a two-hour stopover in Bendigo on Monday night.
Ms Moran plans to ride a distance of 400 kilometres a day for a period of 110 days.
Her ride will end in Tasmania on November 19.
Ms Moran hopes the ride can help prevent others falling victim to the tragedy of suicide.
"It's about turning a negative into a positive. If we can just help person it makes it all worthwhile," Ms Moran said.
"People need to know they matter and that family cares and we deserve a chance to help them if they are struggling.
"We never got a chance with Jaie. None of us is better off if we lose someone, especially to suicide."
Suicide is the leading cause of death in young Australians aged 15-24.
Statistics show that from 2003-2012, nearly 23,000 people died by suicide in Australia, compared with about 8000 on the nation's roads.
"It's a lot more serious than people realise and not talking about it isn't going to help," Ms Moran said.
"So, get it out on the table.
"People need to start saying that they need help, so they can get help. People do care."
Just two days into the ride, Ms Moran said she had been overwhelmed by people along the way who had shared their experiences of suicide and depression.
She is being aided on her journey by health advocate and social and community entrepreneur Jerry Farsoun.
The founder of suicide, bullying and depression support service Overdownunder, Mr Farsoun made headlines in 2008 when he became the first person to fly solo around Australia in a powerchute.
He is taking the trip around Australia with his wife and two children in the organisation’s orange bus, which is a self-contained unit providing accommodation, kitchen and garage.
Painted boldly on the vehicle’s side are the words “Stop Bullying, Cure Depression, Prevent Suicide”.
After attempting to take his life in 2007, Mr Farsoun embarked on a mission to make a difference in other people’s lives.
The Jaie’s Journey fundraising effort has been given an early boost, with the Bendigo Ride 4 Life organisation donating the $4000 proceeds of a charity ride on Sunday.
A further $1000 private donation has also been received.
To follow Ms Moran’s progress, visit the Facebook page: facebook.com/overdownunder; or website: http://www.overdownunder.com.au/