COURAGE TO SUMMIT: THE 21x21 CHALLENGE

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At forty years old now, I am a recovered alcoholic managing to live a healthy, active life that I love, despite the very real effects of diagnosed depression, anxiety, and a swath of other mental health struggles due to trauma, physical/emotional abuse, and of course loneliness. Dealing with these struggles has, at times, led me to some very dark emotional places. Overcoming these burdens has not been easy and certainly did not happen quickly or on my own accord or power alone.

I am the sole parent to two incredibly amazing teenagers who have had to live with and overcome many similar struggles of their own. We have lived in Calgary for six years now after moving from British  following a tragedy that would change our lives forever. Having gone through many of the mental health and addiction counseling systems in our region, I have encountered many things that have helped, and many more that seemed to be of no help whatsoever. However, I believe that the biggest relief or change-making puzzle piece came from something we call identification and connection. Until I was personally connected with other seemingly recovered men who truly understood my struggles, the internal pain seemed to persist. For me, that was leading to a place in my mind where it made sense for me to simply not exist at all. I truly believe that until I was connected with these solid, altruistic men, no true progress could be made in the direction of lasting recovery. They showed me that learning how to get connected spiritually to something and becoming a part of a system that thrives on altruism was a tangible, workable solution. It allowed me the ability to pick up the pieces of my life and construct meaning from my journey.

Today, one of the ways I get connected spiritually is through a connection with the outdoors, and I believe the meaning of my journey is to help others through identification and connection. I mentor many men in our community with similar struggles to mine and am confident I can make a difference, not only through mentorship and awareness, but also through educating our community to an understanding of the symptoms and how to find, then utilize effective solutions. I aim to show in a profound way that there is hope and that there is substantial help.

My journey from the military to entrepreneurship has been one of growth, resilience, and service. During my time in the armed forces, I learned firsthand the importance of physical and mental health and the challenges of breaking down the stigma surrounding men's issues. This experience fueled my passion for advocating for wellness and supporting my fellow comrades through their transitions.

After leaving the combat arms, I found myself in Calgary, where I discovered a new sense of purpose working with the Transition Center. Here, I dedicated myself to assisting ill and injured military members as they made the challenging journey back into civilian life. Through group programs like Helmets to Hard Hats, I have strived to work collaboratively with others to empower veterans in their transition process.

Catalyzing my creative side and passion for cultural exploration, I embarked on global journeys. Immersing myself in diverse cultures and landscapes, I found inspiration that nurtured my artistic spirit. Whether through photography, painting, or design, I used art as a means of expression and profound healing, finding solace and purpose in the act of creation.

Harnessing my artistic talents and entrepreneurial spirit, I took the leap and founded a print shop. This venture started as a business, before developing into a platform for creative expression and community building. Collaborating with fellow artists and craftsmen, we fostered an environment that celebrated individuality and innovation. Through bespoke designs and custom printing services, I synergized my passion for art with a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

My journey from the battlefield to the print shop has taught me the profound interconnectedness between service and creativity. Today, I continue to advocate for health and wellness, support transitioning military members, and pursue my passion for artistic expression. I believe that my story is a testament to the resilience and potential for growth human beings are capable of. As well as the significance of seeking purpose beyond military service.