Here4Hope Announces 2023 Recipient of the Neil Dunsmore Power of One Award

Wellington County, On - Here4Hope is pleased to announce Lynn Brandwood as the 2023 recipient of the Neil Dunsmore Power of One Award. This annual award recognizes an individual in Wellington County whose actions have made a significant contribution to promoting life and preventing suicide.

Everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide. The goal of Here4Hope is to engage as many individuals and organizations as possible in this important work.

In the fall of 2020, Neil Dunsmore walked 500 km from Elora to Ottawa. Neil’s ‘Steps to Stop the Silence’ was a message to everyone that we must not stay silent about mental illness and suicide. Proceeds from the walk supported the Cody Sheppard Project. Neil demonstrated commitment, leadership, and compassion through his efforts for ‘Steps to Stop the Silence’.

Lynn Brandwood exhibits the same qualities that Neil exemplified as he inspired us with each step. Lynn’s son Michael died by suicide. Lynn journeyed through her grief with the help of the Here4hope Support After Suicide Team, meeting others who have experienced similar losses.

“When an individual takes a tragic loss and makes meaning of it through service, they become a gift to their community,” commented Cecilia Marie Roberts, Project Lead for Here4hope.

In 2021, Lynn started “The Power of the Grip” to support, educate and raise funds for The Grove, Youth Wellness Hub in Fergus. "In honour of Michael, I now stand for those that cannot speak for themselves. I now fight to help those that feel alone. I now raise awareness about the power of love and support,” said Lynn Brandwood.

Lynn initiated an annual ATV Charity Ride in September 2021 and with others organized the inaugural Power is in the Grip annual golf tournament on June 10, 2023.

Learn more about Here4Hope at: www.here4hope.ca.

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Media Contact:
Cecilia Marie Roberts, Project Lead Here4hope
T 519.546.2659
E ceciliamarier@wellington.ca