By Connor Trembley

An astounding 84 people attended our Walk for Life Event at NESS Field in Gitlaxt’aamiks yesterday to raise awareness around men’s mental health.

Our staff started to prepare for the event in mid-April. They ordered blue Walk for Life t-shirts, secured exciting door prizes, and arranged transportation for participants who were going.

During the start of the event, participants proudly put on one of the blue shirts and gathered on the local track to do a light stretch.

Each participant was given an elastic loop at the start of the walk and a bead for each lap they completed. A sea of bright, beautiful bracelets quickly appeared.

People completed the walk for various reasons. Some were doing it to pay tribute to a family member who recently passed way. Others wanted to show their support for those who are struggling with mental health issues.

After the walk, everyone showed gathered for a group photo and enjoyed salmon, salad and other delicious food for lunch.

While everyone ate, NVHA staff announced the door prize winners. Some of the prizes included first aid kits, portable earbuds, an inflatable pool and barbecue.

Finally, NVHA CEO Corinne McKay thanked everyone who attended the event, all the staff who made it happen and the businesses that donated door prizes.

We can’t wait to see you all again at next year’s Walk for Life event!