I am participating in Outrun the Stigma (OTS) Calgary in support of Distress Centre Calgary (DCC). OTS is an annual 5k walk/10k run that aims to reduce mental health stigma. DCC provides 24/7 crisis support, professional counselling and 211 referrals, all at no cost.

Mental illness affects 1 in 5 people in a given year in Canada and indirectly affects all Canadians. "Stigma erodes confidence that mental illnesses are real, treatable health conditions. We have allowed stigma to erect barriers around effective treatment and recovery. It is time to take those barriers down."

I am fundraising in honour of a childhood friend and classmate, Jessica Izquierdo, as well as the countless others who have lost their lives from a mental illness. 

You are important. Your life matters. Your story matters. Your feelings matter. You ARE loved. 

Thank you for supporting me and helping us end the stigma