In memory of Peter (Rabbit) Saunders
Donation protected
On November 12, 2019, Peter (Rabbit) Saunders, the son of my wonderful friends Michelle and John Saunders, lost his battle with opioid addiction.
Over the past several years Peter became very well-known across Canada as he worked together with the CBC to put a face on the opioid crisis by sharing his story. In 2017, Peter filmed a CBC Red Button first-person video diary of his life on the streets of Toronto. His story touched so many, his battles and the impact on his family were shared again in a 2019 full-length CBC documentary feature “Saving Rabbit ” where he explored his addiction, the impact on his family, and his journey to sobriety greater depth.
Peter worked his whole life to bring education and awareness to the public about homelessness, substance use and harm reduction in order to challenge stigma. The outpouring of support for his family from those he touched, the stories, the memories and the impact he had in helping others even during his darkest moments is a testament to the humble and kind young man he was.
Nothing can take away the pain of losing Peter for Michelle, John, and family, but a helping hand to cover living costs and expenses, especially during the early weeks of grief, would be some relief. The last thing they should be worrying about now is making ends meets. This initiative to raise funds will help support Michelle and John during the grieving process and make it possible for Michelle to continue to keep Peter’s story alive and strive to reach other families in crisis.
Please feel free to share your love and kindness with our friends in the comments section of this page.
If you prefer to make a donation in Peter’s memory to the Moss Park Overdose Prevention Program via Street Health donations or gifts-in-kind are gratefully accepted.
Over the past several years Peter became very well-known across Canada as he worked together with the CBC to put a face on the opioid crisis by sharing his story. In 2017, Peter filmed a CBC Red Button first-person video diary of his life on the streets of Toronto. His story touched so many, his battles and the impact on his family were shared again in a 2019 full-length CBC documentary feature “Saving Rabbit ” where he explored his addiction, the impact on his family, and his journey to sobriety greater depth.
Peter worked his whole life to bring education and awareness to the public about homelessness, substance use and harm reduction in order to challenge stigma. The outpouring of support for his family from those he touched, the stories, the memories and the impact he had in helping others even during his darkest moments is a testament to the humble and kind young man he was.
Nothing can take away the pain of losing Peter for Michelle, John, and family, but a helping hand to cover living costs and expenses, especially during the early weeks of grief, would be some relief. The last thing they should be worrying about now is making ends meets. This initiative to raise funds will help support Michelle and John during the grieving process and make it possible for Michelle to continue to keep Peter’s story alive and strive to reach other families in crisis.
Please feel free to share your love and kindness with our friends in the comments section of this page.
If you prefer to make a donation in Peter’s memory to the Moss Park Overdose Prevention Program via Street Health donations or gifts-in-kind are gratefully accepted.
Fundraising team: Friends of Michelle (2)
Alison Clarke
Organizer
Waterloo, ON
Michelle Saunders
Beneficiary
Danielle Martin
Team member
