The motto of Cobourg is the “feel good town” and there is a resident that is doing just that one hug at a time.
Her name is Syllie and she is 58-years-old originally from Regina, Saskatchewan, but moved to Cobourg many years ago.
Every Monday for the last five weeks Syllie stands on King Street near Victoria Hall giving out free hugs to anyone.
Growing up in Regina, Syllie said she lived in a household that wasn’t very affectionate.
“One of the things I realized is I wasn’t hugged as a kid,” she told Today’s Northumberland.
“So if you want to get a hug, the best way to get a hug is to give a hug.”
Syllie called that, “a little selfish insider scoop.”
“Given the atmosphere globally about hatred, murder and death, I can’t just sit by and not do something.”
“Everyone in the world could use another hug – so that’s what I do.”
She calls herself a “cannabis success story” after being over prescribed opioids for Fibromyalgia and PTSD.
“I used to have so much anxiety and all the messages I was raised with were negative.”
But now she can barely contain herself and the joy on King Street on Monday’s is something to behold and people cross the street to give her a hug once they read the sign.
Cobourg councillor Adam Bureau who has a nearby store said Syllie is amazing.
“I think it’s wonderful. I think it’s a great way to brighten up your day and I think it’s great for human compassion. She’s a wonderful lady, who is happy and courteous and lovable.”
Syllie is usually on King Street near Victoria Hall every Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. till noon.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
