Unfortunately, bad news comes with the good. It is difficult to process the negative events in our lives, much less anticipate them. Every now and then, something especially heartbreaking occurs. And this week carries with it one of those gut-wrenching reports.
Henry Gartland was only 21-years-old when he passed away. Originally from the Minneapolis area, he always had a positive outlook on skating and in his life in general. He handled some of the scariest handrails we’ve ever seen with professional execution. Ironically, most of us may recognize him from his footage in Thrasher’s Am Scramble 2018. He gained notoriety in his “Bangin’” segments, along with many other videos, at The Berrics. As a team rider for Santa Cruz Skateboards, we could clearly envision his path to earning a pro board.
Anyone that knew Henry could tell you that he lived his life with a grateful presence and added good energy to any group he was in or session he was on. And that is even more reason for us each to check in with our friends to make sure they are doing alright. Even when our friends wear a happy face, they can be struggling inside. Even those that seem most confident may have their self-doubt.
Henry will forever be remembered for his positivity and how hard he ripped. Nothing can take that away from him. Nothing can take what we had given to skateboarding away from it. We will remember him fondly.
If you or someone you know needs help, or even just someone to listen, reach out or hook them with the 24/7 suicide prevention hotline (800-273-8255).
