605 PROFILE Megan Etrheim
WRITTEN BY MADDILYNN KALLSEN + PHOTOS BY KAYLA JOHNSON
“Being involved in The 437 Project has already changed my life in ways I never expected,” said Megan Etrheim of Sioux Falls. “It has helped me rediscover my voice, my hope, and my purpose.” Etrheim followed along with last year’s journey and knew this was something she wanted to be a part of. She applied and became one of 13 runners, fundraisers, and community leaders for the 2026 run across the 437 miles of South Dakota. The 437 Project has aimed to connect communities, start conversations, grow awareness, and champion mental and physical wellness since 2022. Donations help provide support for loved ones who’ve experienced a loss by suicide and life-saving means of prevention through The Helpline Center, Avera Behavioral Health , Live Inspired 365 , and other organizations across the state. This year’s run will start September 17 and end the 20 at Levitt at the Falls in downtown Sioux Falls. The mission behind the event is especially near and dear to Etrheim, who has struggled with depression, trauma, an eating disorder, and survived suicide attempts. Much of her story has not been revealed until now, and she has seen how sharing it sheds light on mental health issues and helps others. As a registered nurse, Etrheim’s passion for helping others through her career is rooted in her own mental health journey. “During one of the darkest seasons of my life, I had a nurse that gave me hope and truly helped save my life,” said Etrheim. “She inspired me to pursue a career in nursing so I could help others the way so many people have helped me.” Etrheim grew up running with her dad—a key part of her support system—who will be by her side sharing her portion of cross-state miles, which she says will be an experience she will cherish forever. “Sharing my story has given me a sense of relief and weight off my shoulders—a reminder it’s okay to struggle with your mental health, and that your struggles don’t define who you are,” revealed Etrheim. Learn more about the athlete.
WHY IS THE CAUSE ESPECIALLY MEANINGFUL TO YOU? Six years ago, I attempted to take my life several times. But my life didn’t end at 21 years old, and I am forever grateful for that. For many years, I was scared to tell anyone I was struggling, and I felt ashamed of my mental health struggles. However, this past year, I have learned to embrace my story and remind others they are not alone and it does get better. HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY EMBRACED AND EMPOWERED YOU AND THE FUNDRAISER? I have had several people reach out to thank me for sharing my story, and in return, they have opened up and shared pieces of their own stories with me. Those moments have reminded me how powerful it can be when we start talking about mental health and create a space where people feel safe, seen, valued, and understood. HAVE YOU HAD ANY NEW REALIZATIONS SINCE BEING INVOLVED WITH THE PROJECT? One of the biggest insights I’ve gained through being involved with The 437 Project is the importance of vulnerability. I used to believe I had to keep my struggles to myself, but sharing my story has shown me that being honest about my struggles can help others feel heard, supported, and not as isolated. I’ve also realized that small acts of kindness and simple conversations can have a much bigger impact than we often realize. WHY IS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY SO IMPORTANT FOR MENTAL WELLNESS, AND HOW DOES THAT TIE INTO THE MISSION OF THE 437 PROJECT? Physical activity is important because it supports both our physical and mental health. Physical activity does not cure or eliminate mental health struggles, but it can help lower stress, decrease anxiety and depression, boost confidence and resilience, and create opportunities for connection. For The 437 Project, physical activity is much more than running. Covering 437 miles across South Dakota isn’t about proving how strong the runners are; it’s about showing up for communities, creating space for conversations, spreading hope, and reminding others they are never alone. Every step, every mile, and every story is part of a bigger mission, and running creates a platform to share that mission. WHAT ARE SOME WORDS OF WISDOM YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE? If you’re walking through a dark season, please remember this: you will get through it. Healing is messy, it’s slow, and it’s rarely linear—but it's possible. Check in on one another. You never know whose life you could impact, or even save. I’m glad you exist.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THE437PROJECT.ORG+
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