As they run to Surf City the women of Team Inspire will be posting their progress via their Facebook page, said Jessica Blackburn. “A lot of people are already following us.”
Called the North Carolina Icebreaker Run, Blackburn said running has, “Helped me get out. I’m one that holds back. I haven’t talked about it. Life is like a journey with ups and downs. We want to let people know it’s OK not to feel good.”

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Rebecca Moxley, one of the people who helped spearhead the 170-mile run said, “This is personal for me. Last year I found my voice.”
She has learned to open up. “I’m sober. It’s time to share my story you can find hope and survive and be happy again.”
Blackburn said she grew up athletic. “Exercise is my motivation. Even when I don’t feel too well I know that run is good for my mental health.”
It doesn’t have to be running, Blackburn said. “It can be anything,” from sewing to other activities which help people to soothe themselves. “We’re going to be seeing a lot of North Carolina, a lot of backroads. We’ll be diligent.”
Nancy Hux, who works in mental health in Halifax County, has been a liaison for the team. “It’s a great way to raise awareness of the stigma and breaking down barriers so people can understand recovery is possible.”