Peyton Hartford
In my freshman year of high school, I struggled deeply with depression. I was impulsive and even attempted suicide. Those early experiences taught me about the heavy weight of my actions and the long road ahead in learning how to live with depression.
Sophomore year brought even more pain. In just three weeks, I lost two grandmothers who had been important parts of my life. Soon after, my second grandmother passed away, and then my cousin Travis took his own life a week later. These losses were overwhelming, and the grief felt almost impossible to bear. I managed to pull through thanks to a huge support system: my caring girlfriend, my supportive brothers and sister, and my loving parents helped me face each day.
Junior year offered a mix of hope and challenge. I found some joy in playing football, though I was often overwhelmed by performance anxiety, always feeling like I wasn't doing enough. When college recruiting began, I received very little attention, and my dream of playing college football seemed to slip further away. Despite the setbacks, I pushed myself harder. I trained to get bigger and stronger, determined to achieve something no one in my family had ever done.
Senior year became a turning point in my life. As a team captain, I played the best football of my life, and halfway through the season, I received my first college offer. My confidence soared with that offer, and soon, I received a total of five offers. After careful thought, I chose Rocky Mountain College because I felt they truly cared for their players, both physically and mentally.
During that same year, I also discovered a passion for raising awareness for men's mental health. I realized that even as a football player, it's okay to show my feelings. This belief inspired me to work on a project called "Big Sky Refuge," a vision I am now making a reality. My journey from a troubled freshman to a proud and determined leader shows that even in the darkest times there is hope, strength, and a way forward, no matter where you start.