North Bay has always been more than just a place to live for me—it’s home. It’s where my husband and I built our life, raised our two children, and where I pursued my passion for teaching. As an elementary school teacher for more than 24 years, I have had the privilege of shaping young minds and being a part of this wonderful community. However, in early 2024, my world changed in ways I could never have imagined.

I have struggled with my mental health since childhood, battling depression and anxiety for decades. Last year, I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and my struggles reached a breaking point. The weight of my mental illness became unbearable and I knew I needed help. That’s when I turned to the North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) for support.

During a moment of crisis, I walked into the Emergency Department, unsure of what to expect, filled with fear and shame. Instead, what I found was compassion. A crisis intervention worker sat with me, offering reassurance and understanding. A kind nurse cared for me with empathy, making me feel safe during my most vulnerable moment. These people—these strangers—became my lifeline.

I feel inspired to share my story because I know I’m not alone. For years, I stayed silent, weighed down by the stigma of mental health. Yet, the care I received at NBRHC changed my life.

As I continued my recovery, I was able to access the mental health services I desperately needed, including group therapy sessions led by compassionate and knowledgeable social workers.

These groups became a crucial part of my healing journey and provided a safe space to learn strategies for managing my PTSD, anxiety, and depression. In those sessions I learned that healing isn’t about erasing the past; it’s about finding the strength to move forward. For the first time in a long time, I began to feel hope.

With the support I received, I began to regain my strength and experiencing hope inspired me to give. Even while in recovery, I made a donation to NBRHC as a way of saying thank you—to the doctors, nurses, crisis workers, and social workers who saved my life. I want to ensure that others in our community can receive the same exceptional care that I did.

Mental illness is often invisible, and the stigma surrounding it can be isolating. However, I have learned that speaking up and seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage. The truth is, mental health IS health. And just like physical health, it requires care, treatment, and support.

I am a mother, a wife, a teacher, and a friend. And I am also someone who has struggled with mental health. By sharing my journey, I hope to shine a light on the importance of mental health services and encourage others to support our hospital that provides hope and healing to so many in our community.

The care I received was only possible because of the generosity of others who believe in supporting mental health care in our community. Whether it’s providing crisis intervention or ongoing support through therapy programs, your generosity can offer hope to patients like me—people who are fighting battles you may never see.

Mental health care is essential, and NBRHC plays a critical role in ensuring that no one in our community has to struggle alone. Your support today can help provide the resources and programs that make healing possible.

I am living proof that with the right care, recovery is possible. Because of NBRHC, I am still here. And for that, I am forever grateful.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tiffany Van Meer