Much of his life, Gerry was underestimated. Misunderstood. Overlooked. Not because it was hard to understand him, but because people assumed they already knew what he was capable of!
Unseen, Gerry felt trapped, alone, in his silence and pain. The isolation was difficult, making his journey a challenging one.
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Growing up on the farm, Gerry was labelled “lazy” by his neurotypical siblings. Teachers, employers, family members often thought he was incapable of many tasks. Many overlooked his bright curiosity and strong drive to learn.
What they missed was a boy who devoured encyclopedias. Who got lost in the details of lakes and animals. Who could see things others did not. A capable person of substance and intelligence!
“If you told me I couldn’t do something,” he says, “my first thought
was – don’t tell me what I can’t do. That pushed me forward.”
Gerry’s determination carried him forward for a long time, but when his health, family stress, and unemployment collided, resulting in a debilitating mental health crisis, his determination and will were not enough.
At his lowest point in his 40s, Gerry considered ending his life.
Gerry needed help! The path forward was messy, challenging, and the burden he carried was heavy. In the end, compassion changed his life.
After much trial and error, counsellors who broke confidentiality, and being dismissed by others, Gerry finally connected with a psychiatrist who treated him with respect and helped him find answers to his questions. He was diagnosed with Autism. Now, he was able to start fitting the pieces of his life together.
When Gerry connected with CMHA Saskatoon, changes in his life started happening quickly. CMHA Saskatoon opened doors. Staff listened—without judgment. They made space for his perspective. Gerry felt listened to and treated like an adult. Slowly, Gerry began building skills and rebuilding his life.
Your donation today ensures others receive the compassion and support Gerry did when they are at their lowest point. Please give today so someone can take the first step forward!
Gerry’s diagnosis of Autism gave him clarity. It reframed decades of struggle. He wasn’t broken. He wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t stupid. His brain worked differently – and brilliantly. His passion for technology led him to become a technical reviewer for Microsoft. And his feelings of depression started to lift.
As Gerry’s mental health improved, CMHA helped him secure a stable role with the Commissionaires, where he has thrived for six years. His manager values and respects him and sees him as a whole person.
That’s what you make it possible when you give. Help open doors for someone who needs a chance to thrive?
Gerry has found meaning in giving back. He has completed Mental Health First Aid, because, as a security officer, he is often the first point of contact for people in distress.
“My mental health crisis opened my eyes to what one goes through
and that being compassionate and empathetic is important.
You never know what people are going through.”
“All dogs are therapy dogs,” he laughs. “Some are just freelance.”
Looking back, he doesn’t shy away from the challenges he has faced: the betrayals, the hopelessness. The years of being overlooked. But that’s not where he stops. Gerry’s story is one of persistence, curiosity, and resilience. And his story continues …
I now understand what Booker T. Washington meant when he wrote that “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.”
And through it all, CMHA Saskatoon has been that steadying support in his corner, along with you today.
With your donation today, you walk alongside Gerry and others who need someone to believe in them. Give today to keep that pathway open!
There are many people in Saskatoon who feel misunderstood. Overlooked. Left behind. Your gift changes that. You are creating strength, resilience, and providing second chances. Just like Gerry’s.