A Seattle man made a stop in Western New York on Monday morning during a 35-state, two-month tour with a goal to help those who risk their lives to keep people safe. 

Jeff Shepard founded Ride for Relief to raise awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among first responders including police, fire, EMS as well as dispatchers. The goal is to reduce the number of first responders who commit suicide and to increase health and wellness support in the field.

"I'm glad I can kind of be that somewhat of a poster child for it and go out and say 'hey, it's OK if you're struggling,' ” Shepard said. “Find the help and get the help so it doesn't lead to worse things." 

Shepard began his trip May 24. His next stop will be Albany.