Murray Wood: Of Easter bunny bells and Juicy Fruit gum
For Murray Wood, Easter brings to mind grandma's practical advice about repurposing, and some of life's little lessons.
A group of 2000 participants ran and walked the streets of Saskatoon Saturday as part of the Step Up for Mental Health run and walk.
The inaugural event that asked runners to choose between a five kilometre or 10 km route was created from a partnership between Cameco and Brainsport.
Jennifer and Tony Butler were compelled to take part in the run when Jennifer was diagnosed with depression after experiencing what she called “life struggles”.
“It’s one of those things you never think is going to affect you, but when it does, it really hurts and it’s hard,” Jennifer said as runners stretched and prepared at the Bessborough Gardens.
The main intent of the run is to raise awareness for mental health issues, start a conversation and end the stigma surrounding the complex topic.
Gathering such a huge crowd for the event goes a long way to try and accomplish those goals, according to Jennifer.
“It’s amazing to see so many people here for something that’s so important, and it’s just nice to have that community feel about it,” she said.
Tony said being able to show support and lend an ear is one of the first hurdles to delving into mental health.
“People who suffer from mental illness, one of the stumbling blocks is being able to talk about it,” he said. “Coming out and seeing all these people who support and you know that they’re there for them is fantastic.”
The event started off with some inspiring words from TSN’s Michael Landsberg and Jennifer Hedger ahead of starting horn.
Post-race festivities include the musical styling’s of Saskatoon-based rockers One Bad Son.
Seeing the large crowds gathering on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River signaled one changing mentality to Tony.
“There’s still a little bit of a stigma about it, but this proves there shouldn’t be. It’s an illness and people need help, and the support is fabulous,” Tony said.
Jennifer said bouts of depression often make a person feel like they’re fighting for their health alone, but having a support group nearby can mean a huge difference for someone suffering from illness.
“To know that they’re walking into a community that’s going to support them and that there is help out there. It can be scary when you feel like you’re the only person ever,” she said.
Funds raised from the event go towards the Cameco Fund for Mental Health through the Saskatoon Community Foundation.
