Members of the Sunshine Coast community experienced a unique and inspired event on Sunday, May 28, at Rockwood Centre Pavilion – the inaugural session of MedTalks.
Hosted by Sechelt Hospital Foundation, MedTalks was created as an informative speaker series focused on mental, physical and emotional well-being, and addressing community health interests and population needs.
The inaugural MedTalks focused on Mind Matters to support mental health and addiction awareness. Featured presenters included Victoria Maxwell, performing her captivating one-person show: Funny, You Don’t Look Crazy; Vanessa White, who discussed the growing need and benefits of Mental Health First Aid for all residents; and Susann Richter, who introduced team members of Vancouver Coastal Health’s (VCH) local Mental Health and Addiction Services.
And gospel/harmony music from Heavy Mellow brought a soulful lightness and warm atmosphere to the event.
Resources and local support services were available before and after the presentations as represented by Sunshine Coast School District No. 46, Sechelt Hospital, BC Schizophrenia Society, Arrowhead Clubhouse and FamilySmart, a support group for Sunshine Coast families.
The next MedTalks will focus on Aging Well at the end of the summer. See www.sechelthospitalfoundation.org/med-talks for more information.
– Submitted by Jane Macdonald
