ROYAL OTTAWA FOUNDATION INSPIRATION AWARDS GALA

Celebrity Host and Master of Ceremonies JJ Clarke.

Community Inspiration Award recipient Margaret Trudeau. The former First Lady of Canada decided in 2006 to publicly share her personal struggle with mental illness. She stepped forward to reveal her battle with bipolar depression, not something that was easy to do. Ms. Trudeau felt the timing was right for her to become a determined champion to those reluctant to seek help because of the associated stamp of stigma and descrimination.


Alicia Kemper with her mom Margaret Trudeau being interviewed by CTV News after the awards presentation.

JJ Clarke with James S. McMillan, a Senior Vice-President with the Bank of Montreal.

The Inspiration Awards program pays tribute to and honours individuals who have overcome their own mental illness or addictions or have been a tireless advocate in support of those living with these misunderstood and feared diseases. Recipients of the Award are shining examples of individuals who have triumphed over the challenges of mental illness and exhibited outstanding leadershop in the elimination of the stigma surrounding it. The "Inspiration" is a limited edition fused art sculpture created by artist Sharon McNamara of Kiln Art, Nova Scotia representing Hope-Strength-Support, and was presented to all four recipients. www.rohcg.on.ca/foundation