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The back story to the OCD Walk...

In 2012, Denis Asselin walked over 500 miles — or roughly one million steps — from his home in Cheyney, PA, to Boston, MA, in memory of his son Nathaniel. Nathaniel took his own life at just 24, after a long struggle with severe body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and OCD. After Nathaniel’s death, Denis decided to embark on a pilgrimage to honor Nathaniel and to raise awareness about the disorder that stole his young son’s life. On June 5, 2012, Denis completed his walk in Boston, and was greeted by staff of the International OCD Foundation, as well as friends, family, and members of the OCD community at a rally honoring Denis and supporting OCD and BDD awareness.

Nathanial and Denis Hiking in White Mts square

To carry on this tradition, the One Million Steps for OCD Walk was created the following year in the same spirit of raising awareness, funds, and hope. It is in this spirit of hope that we invite you to join us.

Walking with Nathaniel cheering horizontal

Join an OCD Walk near you!

Philadelphia, PA
September 30, 2023

Austin, TX
September 30, 2023

Asheville, NC
September 30, 2023

Dallas, TX
September 30, 2023

Columbus, OH
September 30, 2023

Greenville, SC
September 30, 2023

Akron-Canton, OH
October 1, 2023

Seattle, WA
October 1, 2023

Durham,NC
October 7, 2023

Harrisburg, PA
October 7, 2023

Washington, DC
October 7, 2023

Oconomowoc, WI
October 7, 2023

Wilmington, NC
October 8, 2023

New Orleans, LA
October 8, 2023

Pittsburgh, PA
October 14, 2023

Greensboro, NC
October 14, 2023

Des Moines, IA
October 14, 2023

Buffalo, NY
October 14, 2023

Cincinnati, OH
October 14, 2023

Overland Park, KS
October 14, 2023

Chicago, IL
October 14, 2023

Atlanta, GA
October 15, 2023

Phoenix, AZ
October 15, 2023

Orlando, FL
October 22, 2023

Long Island, NY
October 28, 2023

Erie, PA
October 28, 2023

Peace Sign Thumbs Up

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