The 2021 Royal Virtual Inspiration Awards recognize “ordinary people who have done extraordinary things” in the area of mental health.
Michael Dixon, a member of the Stittsville Rotary Club and a veteran of the funeral services industry, received on March 4, 2021, the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health Virtual Community Inspiration Award for starting the country’s first peer support groups for funeral directors and staff to cope with occupational hazards of the job. Just five years ago, he had wanted to end his life, but Michael convinced himself to first call his doctor. Fortunately, his call was answered, and Michael received the help that he needed for himself. In 2017, Michael and 3 of his co-workers formed the Canadian Funeral Peer Support Group to address the mental health needs of workers in funeral services industry. Since then, a network of peer support groups has formed across Canada and there is interest in United States as well.
This past week, Michael was one of five members of the Ottawa community honored at the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health Virtual Inspiration Awards for tackling mental health stigma, raising awareness, and scientific research. The gala event was held at the Delta Hotel in Ottawa with 450 people participating virtually, raising a net total of more than $415,000 for patient care and mental health research at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. The event celebrates the passion of people like Michael who are committed to making the world better, and who have the determination to triumph through hardships, the courage to speak up, and the resolve to help break down the stigma often associated with mental illness.
For more information check http://www.funeralpeersupport.com/, www.theroyal.ca and the Ottawa Business Journal. Photo and information: Caroline Phillips