This year marks my second time taking part in the Heavy Hockey Showdown in support of the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, and while I wish events like this weren’t necessary the reality is they are more important than ever.

Like everyone, I would love to live in a world where sexual violence prevention, survivor support, and trauma-informed care were fully funded and universally accessible without relying on fundraising. Unfortunately, that isn’t the world we’re in. Provincial funding cuts and the ongoing rate of sexual assaults in our communities mean organizations like SACE continue to face increased demand with fewer resources. Survivors don’t get to pause their healing because funding falls short, and neither should we.

I’m taking part again because I believe showing up matters. SACE does critical work every single day, offering counselling, education, and support to people navigating some of the most difficult experiences of their lives. That work changes and saves lives, even if it often happens quietly and behind the scenes.

This year, I’m aiming to raise $2,000 to help make sure those services remain available to those who need them the most. Last year showed me how powerful it can be when people come together for a cause that really matters, and I’m hoping to build on that momentum. Whether it’s a donation, a share, or a conversation sparked by this fundraiser, it all helps.

Thanks for supporting this, for caring, and for helping make sure survivors continue to have access to the support they deserve.

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The Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE) exists to support people impacted by sexual violence and engage communities to promote respect and uphold a culture of consent.

Our mandate at SACE is to provide an extensive range of support services for people who experience sexual violence, including crisis support, counselling, police and court support, and advocacy. We also aim to foster prevention of sexual violence through direct public education and advisory consultation with groups and agencies undertaking their own prevention efforts.