Walking Home for Christmas: Wellington man plans to walk 25 kilometers to raise funds for CMHA NS

Nov 4, 2022

When Keith Toon heads home from Halifax Stanfield International Airport to start his Christmas holiday on December 23 it will likely be more somber than celebratory. The British Royal Navy veteran will be walking 25 kilometers to his home in Wellington, Nova Scotia, in a bid to raise vital funds for the Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division.

He’s calling his fundraiser Walking Home for Christmas.

In addition to the $700 he intends to raise; Toon hopes his initiative will draw much-needed attention to the role the stigma plays in poor mental health. Toon says he has lost “too many” friends and colleagues to suicide. Talking about a mental health issue, illness or suicide can be daunting. He says silence isn’t a safe or healthy option and knowledge can save lives.

But knowledge alone isn’t enough — shame, and stigma are formidable obstacles.

“I have lost far too many friends and workmates because they didn’t think they could talk about what was going on, and be accepted.,” says Toon. “I am fortunate to be supported by my loving family and friends. Too many people do not have this close support and they suffer in silence. In this day and age people should be able to speak openly about their mental health without fear of judgement or being ostracized.”

Toon hopes to see the funds he raises to go towards suicide prevention and education work that addresses stigma so that more people as comfortable talking about their mental health as they do their physical health.

One in three Canadians will struggle with their mental health or a mental health challenge in their lifetime. The Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division delivers safe, inclusive evidence-based programs, training and navigation support that Nova Scotians need to be well and stay well. These programs are free to access and available to everyone living in Nova Scotia.

Support Walking Home for Christmas by donating online HERE

Got a feeling that someone you know or care about it isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it. Start with three simple words: ARE YOU OKAY? Learn the signs and when it’s time to ask HERE. A conversation can save a life.

Learn more about CMHA NS programs HERE

Inspired by this story? Become a CMHA NS Mental Health Champion and start your own fundraiser. To get started today, contact Erin Christie, Provincial Lead, Communications and Community Engagement at [email protected]