ORLANDO, Fla. — They’re some of the bravest of the brave, defending America from people with sinister intentions. When they’re done with their service, then what? Some may not have the resources, especially mental health resources, but that’s where Everyday Hero Mike Winslow comes in. He’s part of a mission to end a trend.

What You Need To Know

  • 'Challenge 22' started in 2017 following a discussion of the veteran suicide problem

  • Mike Winslow said 22 veterans take their own lives each day 

  • The money raised goes to organizations that help veterans 

“Challenge 22, sadly 22 a day, sadly,” Winslow said of the 22 veterans who take their own lives each day.

Challenge 22 is a 501c3 that he’s a part of, and while setting up for a recent benefit, Winslow said it started after a conversation during a mission trip to Guatemala with a friend who is a veteran.

“Since I’ve never served, I had no idea the plight of the veteran on the back end, coming home,” Winslow said. “So when I heard about the 22 veterans committing suicide a day, I was like there’s no way. That seems exaggerated.”

Challenge 22 started in 2017, and the money that’s raised through Challenge 22 garb sold online and a walk goes to organizations that help veterans.

“There’s such a stigma about asking for help, and even finding people to help them in whatever their situation is,” said Hadley Winslow, Mike’s wife. “I think it’s fantastic that we can be a part of something that is helping with that stigma.”

Challenge 22 has a goal of raising $100,000 by Dec. 31.