Mo's Story

I walked through the doors just before my 17th birthday in need of someone to talk to. I couldn't bear being alone anymore

I got in touch with a counsellor. The whole process was very strange to me, meeting someone once a week to talk about myself. It wasn't like anything I've ever done before. As I sat there slouched and barely making eye contact she asked me questions about my life - my feelings, family and school. Each week I would open up to her a little more; testing the waters to see if she was safe. My biggest fear - being hurt by another person I thought I could trust - never came true.

A year had gone by of building a solid relationship and trust, when I was forced to make one of the toughest decisions of my life - run away from home.

My counsellor connected me with Delisle's Housing Worker and together, the three of us created a plan of referring me to different group homes in the city. Finally, some stability. I was able to work with my counsellor, group home staff and other care providers to address the issue of mental health, suicide and abuse.

My counsellor was the only one who stuck by my side, day in and day out, tirelessly working to ensure that I was safe, healthy and happy. She was the first person to ever express genuine interest in me. Those relationship building skills have transferred to other aspects of my life.

After meeting with my counsellor for 3 years, I was ready to move on to become the strong, impactful woman I am today. I am now a dedicated DYS volunteer and advocate pushing for child and youth mental health awareness and engaging youth in our communities on a local, provincial and national level.

But Delisle has and will always be my second home.

Mo has been involved with counselling, Housing support, the Art Gallery, public speaking and fundraising on Delisle's behalf. She is the recipient of the 1010 Identify 'N' Impact Award.