Former NHL goalie turned mental health advocate Clint Malarchuk will be speaking at the Arthur arena hall on May 4, from 7 to 8:30pm.
The event is just one of many taking place across Canada to acknowledge National Mental Health Week, May 1 to 7.
Imagine the stress of being an NHL goalie, battling slapshots for your team and thousands of fans on the ice, while battling anxiety, depression and PTSD off the ice. Malarchuk doesn’t have to imagine it, he lived it.
Malarchuk, who played goal for the Quebec Nordiques, Washington Capitals and Buffalo Sabres, had undiagnosed mental health issues as a youth that escalated into a long battle with mental health, alcoholism and a suicide attempt.
He will share his life story in his relentless effort to end the stigma of mental illness and offer hope to others. His wife Joanie joins him to share her perspective as witness to his darkest hours, and as his steadfast rock and caregiver through some long and difficult years.
“Clint Malarchuk has been described as brave and heroic for sharing stories about his life both on and off the ice,” said Heather Glenister, coordinator of the Suicide Awareness Council.
Myrna Hutchison of Get In Touch For Hutch, stated, “We are pleased to be able to welcome Clint and Joanie to Arthur and we invite the community to join us.
“Together, we can give a voice to promoting mental wellness, resilience and hope.”
The event is being presented by the Suicide Awareness Council of Wellington Dufferin and Get In Touch For Hutch in partnership with Lutherwood and the Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council.
The event is also supported by Safe Communities Wellington and YouthTALK.
Admission to the event is by donation.
