Mark Gorodetzer

From September 2016 to January 14, 2017, I was in a dark place. I was struggling with emotional pain I didn’t understand and ignoring the triggers I didn’t know how to face.

During that time, no medical professional asked me the one question that could have changed everything—until my spine surgeon finally did. He looked at me and asked, “Do you want to live?”
That was my first wake-up call.

The second came weeks later, when I told my cardiologist I had been abusing prescription painkillers and alcohol.
His response: “You should never have survived. I don’t know how you even made it to this appointment.”

That moment was hard to hear—but it opened my eyes.

Since then, I’ve taken full responsibility for my life and my healing. I’ve never been ashamed of my story. I knew I needed help, and more importantly—I needed support.
I found a therapist and haven’t missed a single appointment. I’ve worked hard to understand mental health—not just for myself, but so I could be a better father, friend, and community member.

Mental health affects more than just individuals. It touches families, neighbors, coworkers—our entire community.
Far too often, people suffer in silence, thinking they’re alone. But I’m here to say: you’re not.

My journey has taught me that connection, compassion, and community can save lives.
We need to talk about mental health—openly, honestly, and often.

Then in May 2022, my 29-year-old daughter, Tami, passed away. That grief shook me again. But it was the support of the Southern Nevada veteran community and my barbecue family that helped hold me up. Their love and presence meant everything.

I realized I needed to do something more. Something with purpose.

That’s why in 2021, I founded reQ Therapy BBQ for Mental Health.
It’s not just about barbecue—it’s about bringing people together, creating safe spaces, and opening the door to real conversations.

At reQ Therapy BBQ, we show up. We support local organizations, meet new people, and raise awareness around mental health, one meal and one moment at a time.

Because healing doesn’t happen alone—it happens together.

I am affiliated with various organizations such as NAMI, Zero Suicide, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Columbia, Perry Foundation, U.S.Vets Nevada, Nevada National Guard, PsychArmor, AFSP, the Mission Continues, Team RWB Las Vegas, Purple Heart, Nevada National Guard, UNLV Rebel Vets, Onward Ops, WSP Foundation, Bourn Free, and more. I also interact many with many veterans groups in Southern Nevada. As I continue with my own mental health education, I want to assist others who are dealing with similar issues. This journey has not been easy and I am grateful for all the people that have met, partnered with, allowed me to join them and most importantly, accepted me for who I am.

There are so many people that have supported me as I continue through my mental health process. Now its my turn to serve the community and have fun everyday!

Steak Force! Bringing people together.