WELLINGTON COUNTY — Here4Hope has announced Darcie (Shepperd) Jemmett and Paul Shepperd are the 2025 recipients of the Neil Dunsmore Power of One Award.
The annual award honours individuals in Wellington County whose actions have made a significant impact in promoting life and preventing suicide.
Named in recognition of Neil Dunsmore’s inspiring “Steps to Stop the Silence” 500km walk from Elora to Ottawa in 2020, the award celebrates those who demonstrate leadership, compassion and a commitment to breaking the silence around mental health and suicide.
This year’s recipients represent a full-circle moment.
Darcie and Paul’s strength and grace were a driving force behind Dunsmore’s walk, which supported the Cody Shepperd Project, founded in memory of their son, Cody.
Since its inception, the project has raised over $250,000 for mental health initiatives in Wellington County, including support for organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs through events like the Annual Cody Shepperd Memorial Golf Tournament.
With the loss of their son Cody, came an overwhelming need to do everything in their power to help prevent even one family from experiencing what they have.
Cody’s journey with mental health began in April 2016 when he was hospitalized for depression and anxiety.
He believed that concussions sustained during years of wrestling contributed to his struggles.
Despite his strength and resilience, Cody died by suicide on Oct. 20, 2017, at just 20 years old.
His legacy lives on through the Cody Shepperd Project, which continues to raise awareness, fund resources and foster community conversations around mental health.
“Here4Hope congratulates Darcie and Paul for their unwavering dedication and advocacy,” officials stated in a press release.
“Their work exemplifies the spirit of the Neil Dunsmore Power of One Award, reminding us all that everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention.”
