End the Stigma - Team Lee

Beginning July 1st, I will bike 1300 km - 100 km/day to honour my brother Lee and to “End the Stigma” surrounding people who are experiencing addiction, homelessness and mental health challenges. I want to take this opportunity to generate conversations, encourage others to share their stories and to speak out about the barriers people face.  I believe if we understand how these issues relate to us and our communities, we can work together to make a change.
 
A little bit of my story...I lost my little brother in 2021; he was loved, he contributed to the world, he meant so much to his family and friends and he suffered from addiction. Before his death, he had reached out to local agencies for treatment but due to numerous barriers, he was turned away and unable to get the support he needed. This is often the case for many who suffer from addiction and mental illness.  Often, they face similar hurdles in getting immediate and life-saving services. My brother spoke out about this and tried to fight for his recovery. I want to amplify his voice and initiate the change he so wanted…that we all should want.  My hope is that his efforts will make a difference in your life or someone that you love. 
 
I created "Team Lee" to raise awareness and understanding of the misconceptions and stigmas surrounding homelessness, addictions and mental health. I collect donations to provide care packages to those in need and raise funds to support organizations addressing the lack of affortable housing, mental health support and addictions recovery. Currently, I make and sell jewelry to help raise awareness and the needed funds. 
 
With the help of amazing friends and family, I’m using this ride to raise funds to purchase at least 2 bicycles and gear for Winnipeg’s St. Boniface Street Links Team - they work to eliminate homelessness, coordinate referrals for housing and services and provide specialized support for long-term recovery. With bikes, their outreach team can more easily access those living outside and connect them to support services. 
 
I started biking earlier this year after suffering a foot injury that left me unable to run for quite some time. I was an avid runner for many years and loved the experiences and friendship that went along with it. I've found that biking has brought back the joy I felt from running.  Giving back, advocating for change and supporting others with similar stories to our family has also been a significant part of my grieving process and healing journey. 



Why 1300 km? It was the distance I was from my little brother when he passed. Please, help raise funds to promote awareness and provide the Street Links Team with extra tools to reach those living outside and connect them to healthcare and housing services. 
 
For more information, visit the Team Lee - Helping Others Facebook page in Edmonton. 

From the Organizer:

Carol has been my friend for 20 years. We joined a ladies rowing team and formed a bond with four other incredible women that is still strong. 

Carol is an amazing woman I admire greatly. She is one the most caring and empathetic people I know. She have never hesitated to give others what they need even if it meant she would suffer. She truly does have a heart of gold. She is taking on this endeavour as part of her healing process, but also because she is determined to help this Team in Winnipeg with accessing persons in need. She understands the complications support workers face reaching people who live outside. She has a vision and passion that is hard for many of us to meet. 

God Bless you Carol on your journey.