Judi Hills says we need to do more to end the stigma associated with mental illness
A Courtenay woman has initiated a ribbon campaign in memory of her son — who took his life at age 31 — and of the many others who struggle in silence.
Judi Hills reached out to neighbours in the Puntledge Park area, hoping they would tie a purple or teal ribbon onto a tree or fencepost as a gesture to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention.
“The support has been amazing and many are planning to do this,” said Hills, who hopes a sea of teal and purple will be created beyond her neighbourhood.
Her son, Sam, was a member of the Canadian Forces at the time of his death. A marriage separation and posting to a different city had left him feeling isolated, especially during COVID. She said he struggled with the demons of self-esteem, depression and anxiety.
Sam ended his life in the early morning of Aug. 19, 2021. The phrase, ‘I don’t want to do this anymore,’ reverberates in Judi’s head because her son said these words to her just hours before his death.
