CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — One man is raising awareness for mental health one step at a time—walking more than 10,000 miles across the country with a purpose.

Kyndal Ray Edwards has spent nearly three years crossing 28 states as part of a journey that recently brought him to Charleston. Along the way, he’s been sharing his story and encouraging others who may be facing the same struggles he once did.

“Originally, it was a dream that had nothing to do with the cause,” Edwards said. “I just wanted to walk across America after hearing about somebody that done it.”

But that dream took on new meaning during a turning point in his life.

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Edwards says while serving a five-year prison sentence, he made the decision to change his path. After regaining his freedom, he committed himself to raising awareness about mental health and recovery.

“It was shortly after I changed my life during a five-year prison sentence,” he said. “I picked mental health awareness and recovery and got out of prison and came out here to make a positive impact.”

Now, each mile he walks is tied to that mission—speaking openly about mental health and reaching people who may feel alone.

Edwards says the topic is often overlooked, especially among men.

“As somebody who has tried to take my life twice, who has dealt with depression, especially as a man—the stigma is harder to break,” he said.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. More than 1 in 7 children between the ages of 6 and 17 also experience a mental health disorder annually.

Despite the physical and mental challenges of walking thousands of miles, Edwards says giving up was never an option.

“When I started changing my life, I remembered a person’s only as good as their word, and their word is only as good as their action,” he said. “I want my actions to back up everything that I say I’m going to do.”

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Edwards also says his journey is about remembering those who are no longer here.

“They say you die twice—the first time when you’re buried, and the second time is the last time someone mentions your name,” he said. “We don’t want anybody to have that second one.”

Through his walk, Edwards documents his journey on TikTok, reaching thousands and continuing to spread his message of hope.

For those struggling, his message is simple.

“You don’t have to know me personally to know I mean this,” he said. “I love you and I care about you.”