In Dobbs Ferry Resident's Name, Locals Rally for OCD Awareness

More than two years after John Kelly took his life after a battle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, the Dobbs Ferry resident's friends are just as dedicated to his memory.
The third annual John Cleaver Kelly Legends Softball Tournament is taking over Gould Park Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to help raise funds and awareness for mental health research.
John Tessitore, a friend of Kelly and one of the event's organizers, told Patch more than $23,000 has been raised over the past two years.

"John Kelly grew up in Dobbs Ferry and was really an inspirational figure in so many people's lives. He was one of those guys that was really friends with everybody, ranging from the kids he knew his whole life, to someone he may have just met the night before," Tessitore told Patch in an email. "His spirit and compassion for others was truly remarkable, he always put his friends first."
Diagnosed at age 12 with OCD, Kelly faced serious depression and took his life at just 24-years-old.

"As heartbreaking as this was for our friends, our community, and especially his family, John's battle inspired our whole community to 'Never Give Up,'" Tessitore said.

Last year, Kelly's story inspired a documentary titled Heroes Get Remembered but Legends Never Die" and the establishment of the JCK Foundation.

"The JCK Foundation uses John's story to inspire people across the world to think differently about OCD and mental health," Tessitore explained.

Kelly's friends are as dedicated as ever to make others aware of the seriousness of OCD and don't plan to slow down anytime soon.

Saturday's tournament is a testament to that effort.

"It is truly a special event that really brings to life how special living in a small town really is," said Tessitore.

To sign up for Saturday's tournament or for more information about the JCK Foundation, click here.