First responders lace up their skates for mental health
Vancouver Island Free DailySep 08, 2018
First responders face off for mental health in a friendly game of ice hockey, intent on raising awareness and support for those struggling to cope with depression and PTSD.
"We are just trying to be better at helping our members in the fire, police, and ambulance service. In the old days, everybody just kind of kept their heads down and we don't do that anymore," said organizer
In
"You know, there are a lot of people hurting from some people they've lost. There have been some tough times, for
The hockey game is a way to bring everyone together to connect and have tough but essential conversations.
"We thought it would be a good way to raise awareness about mental health, especially for first responders who wind up seeing terrible things. We want people to know there are people to talk to and resources to access," said
"A lot has changed just in the last year in the Victoria region. There wasn't a lot of support out there in the past but in the last year and a half, WCB has completely changed and done an about face. It is awesome. There has been tons of support," said Serbic.
The event begins with a pancake breakfast, giving first responders and the public a chance to mingle and chat.
"That's kind of what the breakfast is, come down with your family. It is an opportunity for us to talk to people and other first responders about mental health and suicide. It's not a feel-good topic but it's something that needs to be addressed," said Serbic.
After feasting on a pancake breakfast with the public, Greater Victoria first responders will lace up their skates and enter the ice together to highlight that "there are no borders when it comes to mental health – we are all in this together."
"There will be a lot of heavy hearts out there when the puck drops, but we are all trying our best to be better and to make sure this doesn't happen again," said Serbic. "This region is pretty special. I've travelled all over the world and this region is one the most caring ones I've ever been involved in. Not just the first responders but the people here."
"We are all in it together," said Hodge.
The First Responders Hockey Game, being held at the
Also being held on the grounds that day will be the 7th Annual Cars, Rods and Rides car show from