Some of my fondest memories are of time spent with my grandparents. Growing up, they were a constant source of love and inspiration, and I’ll always cherish the moments we shared. But being so close to them also meant I witnessed the challenges they faced as they aged.
One moment stands out vividly: when my grandfather had to move in with us because he couldn’t access the health services he needed in his rural community. Even with both of my parents working in healthcare, navigating the system for him was anything but easy. That experience stuck with me.
In the 2000s, as society began breaking down the stigma around mental health, I developed a deep interest in the field. I pursued studies in clinical psychology and sociology, but I quickly realized I didn’t just want to help individuals—
I wanted to work on systemic change. I kept asking myself, How can we improve the system so that everyone benefits?
That’s when I discovered the Council on Aging of Ottawa. I joined their Health Issues Committee, and suddenly, I had a platform to make an impact. Our committee tackled pressing challenges like mental health and access to healthcare for older adults. We collaborated with other organizations, met with decision-makers, and advocated for real, actionable change.
It’s been incredibly rewarding to see our work helping to shape the system. It feels like I’m honoring my grandparents and their generation by giving back. Their struggles were the spark that ignited my passion, but through this journey, I’ve learned that making a difference is about more than personal connections—it’s about shaping the future for and with older adults.
But the reality is, if we don’t act, nothing will change. Older adults in our community will continue to struggle with inaccessible services, limited support, and systemic barriers. Without solutions, the challenges they face will grow, leaving many isolated, overlooked, and without the care they deserve.
I invite you to be part of this change and donate to the Council on Aging of Ottawa. Through your support, you advance the wellbeing of Ottawa’s older adults. Your contribution supports vital advocacy efforts creating a brighter, more equitable future for older adults in Ottawa. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
To give – https://bit.ly/COAGivingTuesday2024
