Doug Middleton’s best friend AJ Morrison suffered from severe depression for almost five years. Through many years of support, enough progress was not made to keep AJ alive. AJ's death sparked a fire in Middleton to make people more aware of mental health issues and help them learn how to live an impactful life no matter what hurdles are placed in front of them.

Middleton started the foundation "Dream The Impossible" to eradicate the stigma around mental health, suicide in the African American community and among student athletes. Dream the Impossible aims to de-stigmatize mental health so that people don't feel as though something is wrong with them. Caring for your mental health is every bit as important as your physical well-being.

Middleton was awarded the 2017 NFLPA community MVP after the first annual ‘Let Your Light Shine celebration’, a program that educates students on financial literacy, mental health, career opportunities, and community service. He also serves on the board of directors for Emerald School of Excellence – first recovery high school in NC.

Mental Health, Men's Health, Black History Month, BLM Diversity & Inclusion, Sports, Athlete, Suicide Prevention, Non-Profit, NFL,