Paul Laberge: Walking Miles for Mental Health Awareness
I don't want people to feel: oh my god, I'm weak and I'm dealing with this. I don't know how to deal with it and I don't know who to talk to.
When Paul Laberge lost his father, Marcel, to suicide in 2018, he was determined that no other family should endure such heartache. This profound loss sparked a mission in Paul to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. His journey led to the creation of 'Let’s Walk the Talk', a non-profit organization dedicated to this cause. In this heartfelt episode of 'MENtal Health: It's Time to Talk', host Allan Kehler sits down with Paul to discuss his inspiring efforts.
A year after his father's passing, Paul embarked on a walk from Saskatoon to Lloydminster. This August, he's taking on an even greater challenge by walking from Regina to Lloydminster, covering a staggering 532 kilometers. All funds raised from this endeavor will support the Libbie Young Centre, a mental health service in Lloydminster. Paul's story is a testament to the power of turning personal grief into positive action.
His walks are more than just physical journeys; they symbolize the steps we can all take towards better mental health awareness and support. By sharing his story, Paul aims to break the silence surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help and share their experiences. Tune in to hear about the incredible impact of 'Let’s Walk the Talk' and how walking can be a powerful tool for mental well-being.