On September 20, I’m participating in Race for the Kids to raise funds and awareness for youth mental health—a cause that’s deeply important to me. Mental health challenges in childhood can have a lasting impact well into adulthood, and early support can make all the difference.

To make this even more meaningful, I’ve decided to step out of my comfort zone and take on a personal challenge: completing my first-ever 5K run. Running has never come naturally to me, but this felt like the right time to do something that pushes me—for a cause that matters.

I’d be so grateful for your encouragement and, if you’re able, your support through a donation. Every step I take is for the kids who need it most.

Nearly 1.25 million youth in Canada experience mental health challenges, and three out of five will not receive the care they need. Sunnybrook’s Family Navigation Project (FNP) is taking action to change this situation.