The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) estimates that in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental health problem or illness. Mental illness is also one of the leading causes of disability in Canada.
It’s likely that we’ve all been touched in some way by a mental illness story – and Cindy's is no different: "Two years ago I stood in front of a very somber filled church and said good-bye to one of my best friends who lost her fight against her mental illness and addiction," said Cindy. "Because it did not define who she was, I struggled with the decision to include words about her addiction in her eulogy. I realized that it was important to acknowledge it- because the addiction was part of her life’s journey. We cannot discount the lives of those lost as a result of a mental illness or addiction. I’m convinced that in every life there is goodness. A life. Still loved. Still counted. Still meaningful."
Cindy believes that, together, we can be the catalyst for change. She asked for help from friends and family to break down stigma and be part of discovering causes, cures and much needed supports for mental health and addiction by pledging to support her.
On July 7th, she completed Ironman Muskoka 70.3. She swam (2 km), biked (90 km) and ran (21 km) to help raise funds and awareness for the Sault Area Hospital’s Community Mental Health and Addictions program. She dedicated this race to the memory of her friend who lost her battle to her addiction. Cindy raised over $2,200 and was able to memorialize her friend on the Celebration of Life recognition wall. Thank you, Cindy, for your incredible support!
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