By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
On the occasion of Mental Illness Awareness Week (Oct. 3 to 9), Northumberland Hills Hospital Community Mental Health Services extends its thanks to Cameco Corporation for the generous donation and the Cobourg Dragon Boat and Canoe Club for their support that made this summer’s paddling group possible for their Peer Program.
The opportunity was provided to more than 20 local adults as part of the Peer Program’s Teaching and Education Learned through Living Talks series, and proved to be one of the most popular groups of this series to date.
“TELL Talks are open to any adults willing to identify they have a mental-health concern and that they want to improve their mental wellness,” NHHCMHS Peer Support Specialist Alexandra McPhee said.
A paddleboarder herself, McPhee came up with the idea for this group after watching youth paddling programs in the Cobourg Marina. She reached out to Jeremy Fowlie of the Cobourg Dragon Boat and Canoe Club to ask about the possibility of partnering in a special adult program. The result was the club’s support and the offer of a deeply discounted rate for participants to try paddling canoes, kayaks and paddleboards weekly for six week, with club staff teaching and supporting participants of all skill levels.
Late last year, NHHCMHS received a grant through the Cameco Fund for Mental Health that was specifically earmarked for the TELL Talk program. A portion of these funds was used to cover participants’ registration costs, effectively removing any financial barriers for interested participants.
“I think the success of this particular group and the testimonials we’ve heard from participants really show how important these activities are for adults we serve,” McPhee said.
“Many people don’t have the resources or access to activities lie this, and we are so grateful we were able to provide this experience thanks to generous community partners.”
“The Cameco fund for Mental Health has supported a wide variety of projects and programs throughout Northumberland County over the past two years,” Cameco Fuel Services Division Vice-president Dale Clark said.
“I’m happy to see that the fund has helped the TELL Talk program to offer unique experiences to provide growth and learning opportunities for participants.”
The press release shared some of the comments received from grateful attendees.
“This activity came at the perfect time for me to try something new. The experience has brought some much-needed peace, joy and sense of accomplishment.”
“I really enjoyed my time kayaking. Once I got the hang of it, I did pretty well. It was very calming and peaceful paddling on the water. It felt like I was in another world where nothing mattered.”
“I didn’t think I would be able to do this. When I realized I could, I loved it. I even bought my own kayak.”
“I believe a large part of my healing comes from discovering hobbies, and the Cobourg Dragon Boat and Canoe Club helped me discover my love for paddleboarding I also appreciate how the staff, instructors/lifeguards are so kind, polite and nonjudgmental. If every agency could operate like the Cobourg Dragon Boat and Canoe Club and support local mental-health groups, I know the world would be a better place.”
The paddling season has ended, but Tell TALKS continue. For more information, contact TELLTalks@nhh.ca
