"I got involved with the council through my best friend, who lost her daughter to suicide at the age of 24.
I had written a song for her trying to help ease her pain, and let her know she was not alone, I understood how she felt. I had just lost my cousin to suicide 3 weeks prior.
My girlfriend was deeply touched by the song and suggested I send it to the Chair of Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council. She had been involved with some of their support programs and thought they might be interested in the song.
Bernadette Copeland contacted me and was very interested in having me sing at the upcoming walk in Barrie, that was in 2017. I have since been singing at numerous events, as well as being asked to be a council member in 2018.
I am very passionate about bringing awareness to the public and hopefully ending some of the stigma's that still exist today. I have since lost another cousin and nephew to suicide, so it makes me want to be more involved in our council.
Together we can bring awareness and offer support." Lee Matthieu Washago, Ontario
“I have been part of the Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council ever since meeting Bernadette and am truly thankful for the amazing team of volunteers who are part of our council.
We strive to raise awareness, provide support, and reduce stigma.
I urge anyone struggling to reach out for help and know that you are not alone. I also urge anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide, to know that you are not alone and that there are supports in place to help you in your grief journey.”
Katy
Springwater, Ontario