Golf Tournament supports mental health and recovery

KIM COULTER, RMH Foundation

KAWARTHA LAKES: The Swing Fore Mental Health charity golf tournament, at Black Diamond Golf Club, is a happy event where serious conversations can occur. Organizers, Barb Timms of Black Diamond Golf Club and author Paul Bromby, aim to eliminate the stigma of mental illness, by raising awareness, mental illness affects us all.

“Dealing with mental health throughout my life, it’s important for people to become aware that it’s okay to talk about it and not hide behind a smile [which] quickly leaves your face once no one is looking,” said Barb Timms. “We also have lost personal friends and coworkers to mental health struggles. Last year, I thought it was time to have an event to raise awareness and support the recovery journey.”

At the dinner, following the tournament, Paul Bromby will be discussing the story behind his children’s book, The Backpack.

“The book details the struggles a young boy had worrying about his Mom’s mental health. The Backpack is a metaphor for the troubles and worries we all carry day to day [which] may not be visible to everyone,” said Paul Bromby. “The purpose in writing this book was to create awareness, but also share my story and struggles, so other families would know they’re not alone, going through this, and it’s okay to ask for help.”

“We are grateful to the organizers of the Swing Fore Mental Health charity golf tournament, for taking this brave step to help others in their own mental health journey,” said Erin Coons, Ross Memorial Hospital (RMH) Foundation CEO. “By combining the relaxed atmosphere of a golf tournament with the important conversations around mental health struggles, we are certain, Barb and Paul and their participants will achieve their goals and touch lives throughout the Kawartha Lakes.”

The Swing Fore Mental Health charity golf tournament takes place Tuesday, September 16th. Funds raised will support the Ross Memorial Hospital Mental Health program and Peterborough Youth Services.

For more information, email btimms@blackdiamondgolfclub.ca.