I am running the Ottawa International Marathon for the second time this May. Last year, I was grateful to have received over $1,300 to support the Ottawa Food Bank.

This year, I'm raising funds to support victims of abuse and trauma in honour of the people in my life who have lived through these horrific experiences. The impacts of such trauma are life-long and can carry grave consequences for victims as they try to process their pain and grief. Sadly, I lost a friend last year to such a battle, and know from my own experiences how difficult it can be to try and undo the damage years later. Organizations like the Centre for Treatment of Sexual Abuse and Childhood Trauma in Ottawa are a vital resource for people on this painful journey.