They can ask the question “Why?” a million times in a day, but for family and friends of Steven Hutchison, it is a question that will forever remain unanswered.
In February of 2013, Hutchison took his life in his dorm room at Brock University.
Soon after his passing, his family and friends formed #GetInTouchForHutch, a committee rallying to do something to make a difference; trying to find a way to stop this from happening to others.
The committee’s main goal is to break down the walls of stigma that exist around mental illness.
“We need to work together to create a society that encourages youth to feel comfortable enough talking about whatever it is that is bothering them without attaching any judgement to what it is that they are telling us,” committee officials state.
“Steven was an amazing guy who had many, many family members and friends who loved him. He could have reached out to any one of them for help. Tragically, for some sad and unknown reason, he tried to fight his battle all on his own.”
The committee has attended various public events over the past year, including many school activities as well as several lacrosse and hockey awareness events.
“Our hope in being out there and telling our story is that if there is someone in the room who is struggling, that we can make that connection with them,” officials state.
“They need to know that they are never alone and that there will always be someone, somewhere who is willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.”
The committee has been fortunate to collaborate with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), the Suicide Awareness Council of Waterloo Wellington and Dufferin, and Wesforyouthonline out of Walkerton.
Last year, more than 600 people participate in inaugural #GetInTouchForHutch event, raising $65,000 for the local CMHA chapter, GLOWW Group, Wesforyouthonline and Kids Help Phone.
On June 28 the committee will host the second annual #GetInTouchForHutch 1km/5km race.
Part of the excitement on race day includes a National Lacrosse League charity lacrosse game at the Arthur Community Centre following the race, featuring NLL and local lacrosse players. Those unable to make the race, can attend the game afterwards.
Scotiabank in Fergus is on board again, committing to matching up to $5,000 of the proceeds raised through the race as part of its Community Giving Program, and also to helping with race registrations at the bank.
To register online visit runningroom.com (under #GetInTouchForHutch). Those interested in volunteering or providing a sponsorship for the race, can email getintouchforhutch@hotmail.com
submitted by Myrna Hutchison
