Issue 5 - October 9, 2013

sputnik

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Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Issue 5 // www.thesputnik.ca

News

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On Campus

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Features

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A&E

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Sports

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Opinion

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Mental Health Issue Partnership with Laurier likely page 3

Living with Down syndrome page 6

Carol Todd: Life after Amanda page 7

How suicide is depicted on TV page 12

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

NEWS

Nathanael Lewis // news@thesputnik.ca | @Sputnik_News

Brantford residents and students hungry for more EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Layla Bozich eic@thesputnik.ca ADVERTISING & DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Angela Taylor angela.taylor@wlusp.com (519) 884-0710 ext. 3560 PHOTO EDITOR Cody Hoffman photography@thesputnik.ca ART EDITOR Rebecca Duce visual@thesputnik.ca WEB EDITOR Sylvia Hernandez-Rassavong web@thesputnik.ca COPY EDITORS Kyrsten Lowell Jessica Lalonde SECTION EDITORS Nathanael Lewis, News Oren Weiner, On Campus Dillon Giancola, Features Amber Richardson, A&E Kyle Morrison, Sports Cody Groat, Opinion

CONTRIBUTORS Brittany Bennett Taylor Berzins Jaclyn Brown Hannah Brunsdon Anthony Fusco Kim Jackson Marc Laferriere Josh Linton Priscilla Popp Kristen Rodgers Swathy Sooriyakumar Aldo Zhang

WLUSP BRANTFORD MANAGER OF OPERATIONS Jessica Lalonde manager@thesputnik.ca PHONE (519) 756-8228 ext.5948 202-171 Colborne St. N3T 2C9

WLUSP OFFICE 205 Regina Street Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3C5 PRESIDENT Allison Leonard (519) 884-0710 ext.3565 allison.leonard@wlusp.com ADVERTISING Angela Taylor (519)884-0710 ext. 3560 angela.taylor@wlusp.com The Sputnik is a member of the Ontario Press Council, an independent organization established to consider ethical concerns and acceptable journalistic practices. For editorial concerns, please contact the Press Council, which can be reached by calling 416-340-1981, by emailing info@ontpress. com or writing to 890 Yonge St., Suite 200, Toronto M4W 3P4. For information on the Press Council, please refer to the web site at ontpress.com.

Taylor Berzins Staff With local food banks providing food to over three thousand people on a monthly basis, hunger is a prevailing issue within the Brantford community.

One of the most underrepresented groups going hungry within Brantford is the student community.

“We want to do anything we can to support university students,” said Heather Vanner, Executive Director at Community Resource Service. “We want to talk to them, and have them know the service is here.”

Even with the recession, the number of local residents who depend on food bank services has remained steadfast and predictable for years. According to Vanner, between 32,000 and 35,000 people access the local food bank each month. One of the most at-risk demographics for hunger within the Brantford community are youths, as “about 40 per cent of people we support in a month are children

under 18.”

“Our food requests are what we’re really trying to promote this year,” said Nicole Dilliot, Laurier Brantford’s student food bank coordinator. Alongside monthly food giveaways, the student food bank also provides students with the option of personal food requests. Requests are established through anonymous online forms and provide students in need with a duffle bag filled with enough food to last a week. “We’ve had about twelve requests this month,” said Dilliot.

Why Not Youth Centres, a string of independent community outreach programs that help to coordinate thousands of meals, help focus in on the youth in Brantford as well.

The Brantford centre provides youth with access to a free dinner on Monday nights, and hosts a Hot-Diggity-Dog program every Thursday, handing out pizza and hog dogs to anywhere from 40 to 70 people. Charlie Kopczyk,

Executive Director of Why Not Youth Centres, believes it is important to be concerned about the risks hunger presents to students and young people within the community. “There are obviously health risks, but it also affects people mentally and emotionally because their focus and things wear down and they’re on edge… hunger is a huge determinant, especially when in school.”

With the extra expenditures that come from back to school, and the associated stress of midterm assignments and exams, fall tends to be a particularly hungry time of year. “Right now we’re starting to run low on donations,” Dilliot said, but the student food bank is hopeful that Halloween for Hunger and the many food drives planned throughout the year will help replenish the stock.

“Run food drives, and events that help food banks,” Vanner urged students, “help us grow further within the community.”

Sochi Olympics: Anti-gay issues surround pricey games Nathanael Lewis News Editor “Anti-gay laws will not affect athletes,” said International Olympic Committee [IOC] President Thomas Bach.

After much international criticism from rights groups, Bach again confronted the issue of anti-gay laws at the Olympic flame lighting ceremony on September 29, at Ancient Olympia in Greece.

“The task of the IOC is to ensure the application of the Olympic Charter at the Olympic Games and for all the participants of Olympic Games. That means we have to ensure a policy of non-discrimination at all levels, for all athletes and for all other participants,” said Bach in a brief statement after the ceremony in southern Greece.

“We have the assurances of the highest authorities in Russia, and yesterday I spoke with the Russian delegation here in Olympia again and they reassured us that the Olympic Charter will fully apply for all the participants of the games.”

The issue of gay-rights has been a constant worry for both athletes and spectators planning to attend the Russian Olympics.

The Games have drawn controversy over the treatment of gays in Russia as well as a recent law banning homosexual propaganda directed towards minors. Reportedly, the International Olympic Committee has warned athletes not to make a public issue out of this

Vladimir Putin with the Olympic torch at a ceremony in Moscow on October 5. (Photo courtesy of EPA)

during the games.

Pricey Games On October 5, the Olympic flame was handed to the organizers of the Sochi Winter games at the official torch lighting ceremony in Athens.

In a short speech before the flame was handed to the organizers, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak spoke about the tough roads behind them and ahead. According to Kozak, organizers for the Sochi games

had taken on “the biggest investment project in the history of the Olympic Games.”

The Sochi Olympics are projected to be the most expensive to date. Spending on infrastructure alone is projected at $50 billion [CAD], a large stretch from the $12 billion estimate when the city won the bid in 2007.

“We will fulfill all the engagement we have undertaken to the Olympic movement,” Kozak added after his speech.

Correctional Services Canada should update protocol, says new ombudsman report Taylor Berzins Staff

A new report suggests that Correctional Services Canada needs to update their protocol on protecting women who practice self-harm chronically.

Six years after the suicide of 19 year-old Ashley Smith, a report released last week by Canada’s correctional investigator blames the federal prison system for being ‘ill equipped’ to deal with inmate self-injury.

The Sputnik is an editorially Correctional investigators began their inindependent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University quiry after the controversial death of inmate Student Publications, Waterloo. Contact Ashley Smith, a woman with a history of menAllison Leonard - WLUSP, tal illness and self-injury. The inquiry began as 205 Regina Street The Sputnik is a proud member of the an investigation about preventable death in the Canadian University Press (CUP) federal prison system, which led to quarterly reports and dozens of recommendations to imOpinions expressed in The Sputnik are those of the author and do not prove federal corrections for female offenders. necessarily reflect the Editorial staff, Particularly, the investigation looked at The Sputnik, WLUSP, WLU or CanWeb those who chronically practiced self-harm, acPrinting Inc. cording to Richard Zinger, Executive Director FRONT PAGE PHOTO CREDITS: and General Councilman for the Office of the Main: Cody Hoffman Correctional Investigator and a legal research Left: Paul MacGilvaray Centre: Carol Todd professor at Carleton University. As specified Right: Rebecca Duce by the final report, titled “Risky Business”, by

ombudsman Howard Sapers, very little has changed in the six years since Smith died.

“What we found is that the situation of Ashley Smith, in terms of her treatment and how her self-harm was being managed, has not quite changed yet in federal corrections and that’s 6 years after her death and dozens of recommendations,” said Zinger.

The “Risky Business” report found that cases of chronic self-harm in federal corrections facilities for women in Canada had more than tripled. According to the report, the Correctional Services of Canada define self-injury as; “cutting, head banging (which in rare cases can lead to permanent disfigurement or brain damage), self-strangulation, burning, ingesting harmful objects and other forms of selfmutilation.”

Incidents of self-injury within Canadian correctional facilities are usually managed by force. “It is often responded to with placement in segregation, use of force, pepper spray and physical restraints,” said Zinger.

The report suggests that Correctional Ser-

vices of Canada are not equipped to deal with women like Ashley Smith who have histories of mental illness and chronic self-injury. Sapers’ report stated that security staff generally overlooked situational factors, such as prior mental health considerations, when managing incidents of self-injury. The ombudsman recommended that chronic self-injury be treated and managed firstly as a mental health concern, as opposed to a security, compliance, behavioural or control problem.

According to Zinger, the report has received no response from Correctional Services Canada or the Minister of Public Safety to date.

“It’s a disappointment that it’s taking so long to affect change in corrections,” said Zinger.

To students looking to someday pursue careers in the field of corrections, Zinger suggests a temper of patience. “The harsh reality is that progress in correction is quite slow. You’ve got to persevere when you advocate for reforms.”

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

ON CAMPUS

Oren Weiner // oncampus@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikoncampus

Mental health from the student perspective Oren Weiner Josh Linton

On Campus Editor Staff

Studies can sometimes pile up to a Studies can sometimes pile up to a point where students can feel overwhelmed, and the stress that is attached to it only becomes worse. With recent developments in student mental health over the past two years regarding the problem of student depression, universities across Canada have taken the initiative to curb and even correct the issues associated with mental health.

Currently without a fall reading week, select Laurier fourth-year students voiced their opinions over its absence, stating whether or not they believed a Fall-term reading week would be a valuable implementation. The general consensus was that it would be beneficial to add the extra week.

“I think it is a good idea. Having a break would be good coming out of midterms,” suggests Jackie Quinn, a fourth-year Concurrent Education student. “It gives students something to look forward to, and take some time off, go home see your family and your friends.”

Like Quinn, Taylor Rutherford, a journalism student in her fourth year, sees the benefits of having a second reading week to remind students how

important a break can be. “I feel that two reading weeks would help reduce stress. This would give those students who feel they need more time to do work a chance to relax,” Rutherford says. She adds, “a lot of students forget of the importance of a break, and an extra week would help remind students of the importance of breaks for mental health.”

Small universities, similar in size to Laurier Brantford, have already implemented the fall reading week into their curriculum, including Niagara Region’s Brock University and Peterborough’s Trent University. Ryan Ternapolski, a nursing student at Laurentian University, explained that for cities like Sudbury, it is important to have a fall reading week, because these cities have the reputation of being less thriving for young adults.

“Benefits of the second reading week would most likely be that it does provide a chance to leave the campus and go home for a while,” Ternapolski comments. He continues, “Especially for Sudbury, just because you start growing tired of the daily grind and how cold and bleak it can sometimes seem.”

Ternapolski also added that often, in his experience, the purpose of having a reading week is negated when

professors overload students with schoolwork. As a result, students aren’t really getting a break, but rather just a week without any class time, of which schoolwork is a substitute. For Ternapolski, the only issue with adding the second reading week is in how professors understand the nature of the situation.

Emily Dwyer, a fourth year Concurrent Education student, expressed support for the notion of having a fall reading week. She suggests that school be pushed a week back, starting at the very beginning of September to make up for the added reading week.

Not all students agreed that the second reading week is necessarily beneficial. Taylor DeClerico feels that it would only drag the year on longer, and that the winter reading week tends to be a distraction for her.

“I don’t think a second reading week will do much to be honest. I find it actually distracts me in second semester, and when I get back I’m just praying that the rest of the year is over,” DeClerico comments.

Laurier Brantford may not currently have a fall reading week, but its implementation is in the works, according to Dean of Students, Adam Lawrence. Basic discussion has already taken place, with suggestions for a study day. There

is also discussion about shortening orientation week by two days, and allocating the two days to comprise a short reading week later in the semester.

For Lawrence, though, it’s not just about having a reading week. There are other initiatives presently in place to help students, such as the Wellness Centre. Students who need mental health attention have the option to visit the centre, and can receive a triage treatment, which involves arranging specified counsel that suits the individual. The Brantford campus would also like to bring the “Love My Life” walk for mental health, which took place at the Waterloo campus on Oct. 3, among other things.

It is also essential to Lawrence that the school not only offer programs to deal with mental health, but also find out what it is that defines and influences mental health. Lawrence named spirituality, healthy eating and physical fitness as some factors that he believes can influence mental health.

“We’re working on foundational things. What gaps do we have, and how do go about addressing them?”

Lawrence said regarding the mental health initiatives and what is needed.

He added, “We want to hear from students what they want.”

Sabrina Ruffolo

Judy Eaton: The happiest psychologist in Brantford Brian Holland Staff

If you see Judy Eaton around campus, rarely will you see her without a smile. Eaton is happy as a psychology professor here at Laurier Brantford. Growing up in Brantford, Eaton moved away to study her undergraduate at McMaster, followed by a PhD at York. Eaton hadn’t considered Laurier Brantford, but her parents recommended applying, and she says it was the best decision she has ever made.

For Eaton, Laurier Brantford was a perfect fit geographically and she loves the campus. She enjoys her classes, in particular her Intro to Psychology course.

She comments, “It’s the time we can get students excited about psychology.” She shows that she gets en-

joyment from others’ happiness.

A huge part of Eaton’s happiness is derived from her five year-old daughter. She is clearly one of the highlights of Eaton’s life. Eaton credits her daughter with giving her a different perspective on life.

“A walk that takes thirty minutes takes two hours instead,” says Eaton, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. In fact, a big part of her research involves examining different perspectives. While doing her master’s, she realized that she had been focusing on a lot of negatives and wished to change that. When she needed to write her PhD, she chose to focus instead on forgiveness.

She continues to apply this positive outlook to her life, as well as her research. When approaching a problem, she asks, “What kind of thing

can I do to resolve the conflict? Rather than [focus on] how the conflict happens.” This way of looking at social psychology from a positive aspect has made research more enjoyable for her.

Summers are free of teaching and offer more time to conduct research. She keeps busy, works very hard, and loves what she does. Although she loves teaching, it’s clear that she gets very excited about her research.

Students in Eaton’s classes have seen how she conducts herself, albeit limited to a professional role. She engages the class and listens to what people have to say, always eager to learn new things. Her voice conveys this tone of excitement, and yet has a calming effect. Her enthusiasm for class discussion shows that she’s happy doing exactly what she’s doing.

Dr. Judy Eaton, professor of psychology at Laurier Brantford. (Photo by Aldo Zhang)

Workshop helps students prepare applications for postgrad studies Swathy Sooriyakumar Staff University is four years of your life dedicated to studying, stressing, and eating mac n’ cheese. Some have been success-

ful without a college diploma, but it is clear that education matters. An undergraduate degree will get you places, but for a better chance of landing a solid, well-paying job, you may want to look into obtaining a graduate degree.

On Tuesday, October 1, the career center held an event for those interested in furthering their education: an Applying to Graduate School Workshop.

“Most people go for a graduate degree to further round out their education, or they’re in a particular stream of learning, and they want to continue learning it,” said Thomas Dobozy, associate dean of graduate and postdoctoral studies.

Jenn Hicks, career consultant, accompanied Dobozy at the workshop where the two had set up a slide show explaining to the small lecture hall of students absolutely everything to do with graduate studies. The two discussed why it’s beneficial to study postgraduate, and the best way to choose the right program.

Dobozy explained to the students how graduate classes are really small, further explaining how graduate studies are an “intimate kind

of learning.” Hicks and Dobozy went into very specific detail about different types of programs and what would be required for each type.

“When it comes to practicum and work placement, you end up with a degree, with work experience and hopefully a good reference,” said Dobozy.

They also explained the requirements, how, and when to apply, as they encouraged students to go to the career center to get help preparing their applications.

Anyone is able to view the slideshow on graduate school, online at wlu.ca/career. For career advise, basic resume help, or someone to talk to about what you want to do in the future, make an appointment to visit career counseling at SCJ.

Check out some Frequently Asked Questions by students, answered by Thomas Dobozy, at www. thesputnik.ca/category/ on-campus/

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

FEATURES Dillon Giancola // features@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikfeatures

Living with joy despite having Down syndrome Brittany Bennett Staff

Paul MacGilvaray, the older brother of Laurier Brantford student Megan Clayborne, is one who lives a very different life from most. At first glance, many have assumed his quality of life is bad. To truly be able to measure the quality of life in definition depends on the degree of excellence within it; something you cannot tell by first glance.

Paul’s family describes him as happy, delightful, upbeat, optimistic, loving, engaging and the list goes on.

There are nothing but proud, defined grins on his parents’ faces when they talk about him. For them it is easy, but Megan has a harder time finding the words. “Paul’s not only my brother, but my best friend,” Megan manages.

The rest of the family all acknowledge his and Megan’s special connection, and tell of how she understands him better than anyone.

Paul officially joined the Clayborne family at the age of 31, the same year that Megan was born. It was June 30, 1994. Paul’s newly adopted parents, Linda and Kevin, already had a daughter of two named Mallory, and Paul’s best-friend-to-be joined the family late that November.

Paul was born with Down syndrome on Aug. 14, 1962, and was put up for adoption at birth. The Down Syndrome Research Foundation describes this disability to be a “genetic condition caused by an extra chromosome.” This extra chromosome causes developmental delays, learning disabilities and health problems due to the cellular changes.

By the time Paul was one, he found his first home at The Robertmack Home for Retarded Children, where he resided until he became a part of the Clayborne family.

During his stay at The Robertmack

Home, Paul had a terrible accident. A friend dropped a piece of paper that flew out into the street and Paul followed it to lend a helping hand, as he always does. He was hit by an HSR city bus, and luckily survived. The right side of his body was paralyzed, and he would never walk again. At the age of only 16, Paul was to continue the rest of

in to long-term care facilities. That is when Kevin and Linda jumped in. They decided to adopt Paul so he could live a normal, fulfilling life within a family.

Kevin explains that he, “took a real shining to him, he was just a great guy.”

Only one year later, Paul began to experience severe neck and head pains, as well as loss of balance. They took

(Art by Paul MacGilvaray)

his life in a wheel chair, but went on living and loving without complaint.

Linda worked with Paul at The Robertmack Home from the age of 13 until she was 20. Fifteen years after she left, Kevin received a job there as well.

Within six weeks of Kevin’s employment, the owner passed away.

Initially, the Robertmack Home was for children, but by this time all of the occupants were well into their adulthood; they were no longer eligible for group homes. Everyone was to be put

him to a doctor, who did X-rays and referred them to a specialist. It seemed that his vertebrae were pressing against his spine; a common health issue with people who have Down syndrome, but the bus accident surely contributed to its severity. The doctor gave Paul about three weeks to live without the thought of any treatments. Kevin and Linda desperately asked what could be done, and the doctor told them that there was no point in going further with his “quality of life.”

Kevin and Linda’s voices sped and their faces begin to flush as they explain how furious they were with that doctor.

They asked him many questions revolving around how he could possibly know about Paul’s quality of life without being a part of it. Reluctantly, the doctor scheduled Paul’s cervical spinal fusion surgery.

Paul lived on happily with his quality of life and was no longer in pain.

Linda explains how the family is centered around Paul.

They do not have the opportunity to do spur of the moment activities; things always have to be planned around Paul’s accommodations. But they do not see this as a hassle, just their way of life. Besides, he loves the attention.

During the interview, Paul hushes us all as if he’s about to say something incredibly important. After

a moment of silence, he begins to sing.

Instantly the room is full of laughter; something Paul does effortlessly.

In October of 2009, Paul’s health began to spiral down once again. He was drastically losing weight, noticeably having stomach pains and suffering from constipation. With each hospital visit Paul was sent on his way with laxatives that did not help. It came to the point that Linda and Kevin had to refuse to take him home until something was done. The doctors admitted that they did not want to be stuck with a “housing problem”; they were afraid Linda and Kevin were going to leave Paul there and never come back. After reassuring the doctor that Paul had a family and home, ultrasounds were finally taken.

Paul was admitted to the hospital at 7 a.m., and the call was made to the family at 4 p.m. the same day. Paul had a cancerous tumor in his abdominal cavity.

The family was devastated. As they were breaking down and barely holding on, Paul was still smiling. He would refuse to admit that he was in pain, although they could all see it in his eyes. The options were minimal. Either Paul went through with surgery to have the tumor removed at only a 10 per cent chance of surviving, or he had a meager four weeks to live.

The family decided on the surgery.

They did not want him to go on suffering any longer. Linda’s eyes begin to water as her voice crackles out, “We all said good-bye that morning because we didn’t know if he was going to make it.”

The tumor was removed at 17 lbs, and Paul instantly went into cardiac arrest. With only a few scares since, Paul’s will to live prevailed yet again.

Megan finds the words to explain that, “no matter how many people told him things were looking bad for him, that there wasn’t much to look forward to, he always looked for that little something, and held onto it.”

Paul has been cancer-free for 4 years now. After those long seven months in the hospital, he lives happily back at home in Hamilton with Linda, Kevin, Mallory and their dogs, Buddy and Sophie. This is his first year living without Megan, and he is by no means used to it considering they’ve been together for almost 19 years. He tells Megan that he is coming to live with her in Brantford just about every time he sees her. Megan smiles as she teases, “you can’t live with me! Where would you sleep?” He disregards her excuses and insists on it anyway.

Paul is continuously happy; he has the desire to always put others before himself. He never looks at the negative side of things and always knows how to cheer people up. “Because of him I have true compassion,” Mallory admits. We ask Paul how he cheers Megan up when she is down. Paul motions her over with his left hand, takes her in a big bear hug and kisses her cheek. As Megan walks back to her seat, Paul blows her a kiss and shines his big smile.

Even with all the tragedy thrown at Paul, that is what he gives back: a smile. Why is he always so happy? “My friends,” he explains.

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The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

FEATURES Dillon Giancola // features@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikfeatures

Carol Todd: A mother’s journey through tragedy Cody Groat Opinion Editor On September 7, 2012, 15-year-old Amanda Todd of Port Coquitlam, British Colombia, posted a video on YouTube. In nine minutes, cue cards are used in silence, set to the music of Jimmy Eat World and Sia, explaining the story of the Grade 10 child. The video is titled My Story: Struggling, bullying, suicide and self-harm. Near the end, a card reads “I have nobody, I need someone.” The video went viral, garnering over a million views within a month.

Millions read how her story unfolded, and millions understood what she was going through. However, Amanda never received the help she needed.

By October 10, 2012, the trials and tribulations faced by Amanda reached a point she no longer felt she could handle. It was this day that young Amanda Todd committed suicide.

The next day, another video appeared on YouTube. In this video, just under a minute long, Premier of British Colombia Christy Clark sits in her home and sends her condolences to the Todd family. She continues with a message to the nation: “No one deserves to be bullied. No one earns it. No one asks for it. It isn’t a rite of passage. Bullying has to stop.”

While the name and story of Amanda Todd spread around the nation, and around the globe, her mother Carol could only ask, “why?” Why did this have to happen to her daughter? Why did her daughter have to experience the things she did? What made Amanda’s story the one worthy of global attention? What was going through her daughter’s mind to make her think this was the only option left?

During the days of mourning and questions to herself, Carol was bombarded with media requests. Days after the suicide of her daughter, Carol spoke out to The Vancouver Sun, telling the story of her daughter as she knew it, and not as the rumours were discussing. She spoke out about how depression and anxiety led to the final decision, and how constant bullying led to mental health issues that other children never considered before their continued

Carol Todd and her daughter, Amanda, who took her life on October 10, 2012.

(Photo courtesy of Carol Todd)

antagonism.

Carol has explained how she feels that, “Facebook has turned into some people’s personal dairies, sharing how their day was or even what they had for supper.” On her personal account, Carol started sharing her thoughts about what was going on in her life, and to her surprise, “friends started to read them regularly and share them with others.” This led to many unknown individuals finding her personal account to read her musings, leading Carol to hide her account from the general population. Thinking there could be a benefit to others if her thoughts were public, Carol created a blog for public access titled “Carol Todd Snowflakes” in the memory of her daughter, her always unique “Princess Snowflake”. Reading the blog comes with two stipulations in the words of Carol, “as Amanda would say, if you are a ‘hater’, there is no place for you here” and “remember to always ‘smother the world with kindness.’”

The blog helped keep Carol busy, as she was on leave from her employment as a Coordinator for Assistive Technologies for the Coquitlam School District. While mulling over “life’s journey”, the idea of a foundation for her daughter formed. Although she may no longer be able to help Amanda, she felt she could help the children who are facing the same experiences. The Amanda Todd Legacy Foundation began as a subsidiary of the Vancouver Foundation for the first few months, and in July achieved its own non-profit status.

On April 26, 2013, Carol decided to check her Twitter feed before heading out to some lunch plans. On the way, she noticed the wife of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Laureen, would be in the area visiting an animal shelter, and Tweeted asking “How long is Laureen Harper in Vancouver area for”, mostly on a whim. On the way home from her lunch appointment, she received a phone call from an Ottawa phone number.

Laureen wanted to meet for lunch, simply to discuss life. It was an offer Carol took with pride. “You don’t say no to lunch with the Prime Minister’s wife,” Carol said.

Possibly as a result from the lunch between Carol Todd and Laureen Harper, Prime Minister Stephen Harper called for a “roundtable on bullying” to be held in Winnipeg on May 10. Present were the Prime Minister, Carol Todd, the parents of bullying victim Rehtaeh Parsons, the aunt of Kimberly Proctor (who was murdered by two teenage boys in October 2010 ), and the mother of bullying victim Jenna Bowers-Bryanton. The resounding message at the end of the day was from the Prime Minister, who stated that as a result of the recent events, “our Government will be doing more to ensure that our children are safe from online predators and from online exploitation.”

With what looked like change in the horizon, Carol continued endlessly with her work in the legacy foundation. Her main goal was advocacy, either through public campaigns or talking to groups of

Amanda Todd’s school photo.(Photo courtesy of Carol Todd)

Carol and Amanda Todd share a moment.

(Photo courtesy of Carol Todd)

children. Though after any tragedy comes the realization that life needs to continue, Carol had to think about returning to work.

Carol discussed how she “loved her work, and loved teaching.” Carol continued by saying that she knew, “she had to return in at least some capacity.” Now, she’s started working part-time, while putting the rest of her time into advocacy. The problem, Carol stated, is how she is, “very much a type-A personality,” and is now facing the concern that, “she’s not doing either job to the capacity they deserve to be done.”

Tomorrow, Carol will experience the one year anniversary of the tragedy; one year since the death of her daughter. This past year has been one of questions, and of mixed emotions. How? Anger. Why? Hurt. Who knows what tomorrow will bring into Carol’s life, but she knows what the upcoming year will. The first half will be spent spreading her message, building awareness and capacity for improvement related to cyber-bullying and mental health issues facing our nation. Early November will see Carol returning to Ontario for the third time in the past six months to speak at Western University’s “Social Media and Sexual Violence Conference”, with a trip to Winnipeg near to receive an award with the parents of Rehtaeh Parsons “for advocacy of exploitation online.” Mainly, Carol will be doing all she can to help the children like her Princess Snowflake, Amanda Todd.

From darkness to light: My personal story about mental health Marc Laferriere The Brant Advocate For over six months between 2011 and 2012 I lived with severe depression. It didn’t start off as severe, more like a trickle that turned into a very heavy fog. It built slowly but at its depth it was really rough.

For me, depression was grey and humourless. It wrapped around me, not at all times, but for the majority of each day. It relented very infrequently and when it did it came back lightning quick. I threw myself into my work. For that period the only consistent time I didn’t feel the grey was when I was working with clients in my role as a social worker. I remember dreading the click of the closing door as my clients left.

For those of you reading this who know me personally, if we spoke in late 2011 to mid 2012 I was in that mucky grey. You might have even noticed; you might not have. I hid it fairly well. I was really active in the community during that time, but it was very difficult. Sometimes I didn’t even want to get into my car. Sometimes I felt sad for no reason. Sometimes things that would normally bring me great joy left me feeling nothing at all. I also constantly felt like I was letting people down.

After a long period of examination and some distance from it I’ve learned that some of it was grief from a string of deaths that had occurred in the intervening years, some of it stress and some of it frustration with the way things are. The reasons aren’t as important as the lesson I needed to learn personally. That lesson was a simple one, but for me and many others it can be so dif-

ficult – talk to someone about it.

Despite all of my training and experience as a social worker and a psychotherapist registered with the Ontario College of Social Work, despite my years of advocacy for various mental health issues, despite my fairly public family history with mental health and despite very supportive loved ones I simply didn’t want to talk about it or get help.

Yes, though I should have known better I didn’t want to be seen as weak. I didn’t want to tell my whole story and have it misunderstood by someone. I didn’t want to be judged. I didn’t want the word getting out in the community…. essentially.

I went through all of the normal feelings people who face mental health challenges feel about getting help.

I normalized, I ignored, I made jokes, I kept busy and I pretended I was okay. I wasn’t, and it kept getting worse. Once I let go of that fear of discussing it and allowed myself to be open to vulnerability and help it started to get better. The fog started to lift.

The secret wasn’t so heavy after some time.

It wasn’t right away, I had to keep at it but I do remember a specific day in May 2012 when I was crossing Colborne St. and I noticed how beautiful the sunlight was. Seconds later I realized how long it had been since I had noticed something like that, and

Marc Laferriere lived with depression. (Photo courtesy of Facebook)

instead of feeling ashamed that it had been so long, I felt just a little bit of peace.

I won’t get into the specifics of what helped me through that time because frankly everyone comes to it differently. There is not one way to wellness, but different ways for every individual. I can only speak to my experience.

I share this story now because it is May and the beginning of May brings with it Mental Health Awareness Week. It’s an important local event and one we have seen grow over the last several years. It’s important because 1 in 5 Canadians will live with a mental health disorder this year. One in 3 Canadians will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime. That means you can draw concentric circles with mental health that show every one of us is affected; be it directly or through loved ones. Be a part of the week of activities.

One of the things I am proudest of is the amount of material the Brant Advocate has printed concerning mental health in our nearly two years of existence. It wasn’t our intent when we started but we received many great submissions from those whose lives have been impacted by mental health disorders and mental health treatments.

In honour of mental health week we have compiled it on a tab on our BrantAdvocate.com homepage for you to learn more about, and to hear from the many mental health survivors who have shared their story with us. I’m proud to count my name among them, not only as someone who works in the helping fields but now as a survivor too.

8

The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

A&E Amber Richardson // arts@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikarts

Top 10 stress-less songs Priscilla Popp Staff

Music can do the soul so much good. In light of our mental health issue, I decided to create a playlist. This playlist is your ultimate go-to when you’re feeling stressed, worried, or just in need of a pick-me-up. Because, let’s face it, pumpkin spice lattes only go so far.

1.

Taylor Swift: 22

2.

Pitbull ft. Christina: Feel This Moment

3.

Katy Perry: Roar

4.

Florida Georgia Line ft. Nelly: Cruise

This song is about going out, and yes, dressing up like hipsters. But beyond that, the song also portrays an important message, and that’s to have fun every once in a while. If you bombed a test or just feel like going out, crank this one up.

The collaboration between these two artists was like a party song waiting to happen. With Christina’s vocals and Pitbull, – ahem – “Mr. Worldwide’s” rap, this song will have you feeling ready for anything.

The new song by Katy Perry is the ultimate “I can do anything” anthem.

With lyrics like “I went from zero/to my own hero,” you can bet this song will make you feel good and ready to take on the world.

In one of the most unexpected collaborations of the year, country’s hottest new band paired with one of the industries oldest rap artists. This song is great if you ever feel like just letting your hair loose and, of course, cruising.

5.

Luke Bryan: I Don’t Want This Night to End

6.

Miley Cyrus: Party in the USA

7.

Lady Gaga: Just Dance

8.

Avril Lavigne: Here’s to Never Growing Up

Pre-VMA Miley was a lot more fun (and appropriate) than she has been as of late. This catchy song will have you “nodding your head like yeah” in no time.

Though several years have passed since this song was released, I still count it as one of my favourites. The lyrics are fun and carefree – just dance to it, and you’ll see what I mean.

9.

Britney Spears: Till the World Ends

10.

Black Eyed Peas: I Got a Feeling

If you’re in the dancing mood, this is the perfect song to warm up to. With plenty of catchy beats, you’ll be wishing this song continued forever.

This song is a particularly good listen if you’re worried about your future.

Sometimes we have to remember that the present is all we have, and in the words of Fergie, “tonight’s gonna be a good night.” That’s all that counts.

For all my fellow country music lovers out there, this one is for you. This song is all about having such a great time out that you really just want it to continue forever. There’s no room for stress in a night like that.

There’s often moments in life where it’s easy daydream back to when you were just a little kid. This song is the ultimate throwback to those days. When you find yourself stressing about that 15 page paper due, I recommend this one.

Detective William Murdoch returns to Brantford Kristen Rodgers Staff

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NiagaraCollege.ca/graduate

905-735-2211 ext 7784

On Monday, October 1, the cast and crew of the well-known Canadian television series Murdoch Mysteries took over downtown Brantford in order to film some scenes for their on-going season.

You may have believed you were in the early 1900’s walking down Dalhousie Street this week. Women were dressed in long Victorian collared gowns, donning broad feathered hats.

The men on the other hand, were dressed in suits and trousers, wearing fedoras. A black horse drawn carriage even made an appearance on the set, creating the early 1900’s illusion. Cars were detoured away by security because the cars driven today are not the same cars William Murdoch would’ve driven in 1901.

The actors Yannick Bisson (Detective Murdoch), Thomas Craig (Inspector Brackenreid), Jonny Harris, (Constable Crabtree), and Georgina Reilly (Dr. Grace) are a part of the regular cast who were present on set.

Brantford is one of the show’s favourite filming locations because the buildings’ historical architecture is period appropriate to the 1901 scenes the directors are trying to capture. “There are a lot of old places; the preserved buildings make our job easier. There are less and less buildings like these to shoot with, it makes it hard. It’s like we are bringing them back to life,” explained Yannick Bisson. Bisson is a Canadian actor, who plays the character William Murdoch, a detective who uses radical forensic techniques for the first time in order to solve murders.

The cast and crew filmed on Dalhousie Street and George Street during the day on Monday and were moving to the corner of Queen Street later that night according to Shaftesbury film’s publicist, Tanya Koivusalo. They filmed in front of the old Royal Victoria Place Hotel on Dalhousie St, and the old public library, now known as the Carnegie building, and Victoria Park on George Street. The Carnegie building is an appropriate filming location for the show because it was constructed between the years 1902 and 1904. They continued filming on Tuesday and Wednesday at other locations.

Fans and local citizens gathered on the opposite side of the street and watched the filming of the episode. Due to the popularity of Murdoch Mysteries, this season will have 18 episodes opposed to the usual 13 episodes.

The episode they are filming in Brantford is being directed by Sudz Sutherland. “The episode is about con artists out witting each other and it will most likely premiere in January or February of next year,” explained Koivusalo.

When asked which season had been his favourite Bisson said that “The most fun has been this year. It has been the hardest, but we have the coolest variety of stuff right from our opening episode which was on a big ship that sinks.

Then we have a zombie episode, the one that I directed, that is going to premiere around Halloween.” Bisson also told us that we can expect to see Sherlock Holmes (Andrew Gower) again, as well as the return of many bad guys.

9

The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

A&E

Amber Richardson // arts@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikarts

: DJ Vekked

with Amber Richardson

DJ Vekked is undoubtedly one of Canada’s most impressive DJs, holding the national DMC title three years in a row, and both the DMC World Supremacy title and the IDA World title for 2012. Vekked is a Laurier graduate and while he may not be putting his degree to “proper use” by some standards, the guy has a philosophy that can make anyone feel like the world is their oyster. Keep reading to find out all about the world’s best turntablist.

When did you start DJing? What made you want to become a DJ?

especially back then, we used actual records, so it’s not like now where you can use mp3s and you are completely unlimited to what sounds you can use. Before, you had to use stuff that was pressed on records and there were certain records that DJs would make specifically for competitions, and so they would have a bunch of sounds that were good for scratching and stuff. There was one sound that was really popular that year and a couple of other DJs used it before me. It was a sound clip from Scarface. So then I used that sound in my set, and I remember people just started booing and they were like, “Get off the stage biter,” and they were acting like I copied the other people. The crowd probably didn’t know that was a popular sound at the time and everbody was using it. But that was my first experience battling, getting booed.

And I don’t even think I was old enough to get into the club at that time, so I had to get a special pass. But yeah, I was pretty devastated after that. It was a pretty rough first go.

Everything to do with music, and my precursor to becoming a DJ, started when I was 12. Somehow I stumbled upon a music making program on the computer with a buddy of mine. We were making beats - like house beats and stuff - and that kind of got me interested in DJing. I started producing, and then I started getting more interested in hip-hop when I hit high school... before that I didn’t know really what hip-hop was or anything. So I started getting into hip-hop, and started learning the elements of hip- What makes you pumped to make music, hop, and DJing is one of the core elements. do you have a process?

I was no good at any of the other stuff like rapping and break-dancing, so I went with My main process is just to do it as much DJing. I got my first turntables when I was as I can. There is stuff that gets me in the 17, just near the start of grade 12. mood to make music and routines, but One of my biggest influences in there’s nothing that is really reliable and becoming a turntablist, which is kind of always works. You can never predict when my genre, [was when] I was looking for you’re going to be in the zone. My theory is videos on LimeWire, because there was with justAmber to do Richardson it and practice as much as I can, no Youtube when I started, and I found DJ and then hope that it’s going to be that day Qbert. That was the first time I had seen where I come up with something brilliant. someone scratching, [watching] videos of There’s some days where you practice the him from, like, 1995. When I saw how they entire day, and it just feels like you’ve done were making the sounds I was hearing by nothing new. And the next day you come like moving the records and stuff, that’s up with more in that day than you have in with Amber Richardson kind of what solidified my choice to become the past three months or something. You a scratch DJ. just never know. Hearing a song that I really like always helps a lot because I’m working We already know of some career highs, with other people’s music. So music that what have been your career lows? resonates with me is usually really good motivation.

There hasn’t been too many lows for a while, but probably my first battle that I ever entered. The first battle I ever saw was If you weren’t doing music now, what at Starlight in Waterloo, and that was the would you be doing? local DMC battle. And I went, I watched it, and it was a great time, but I was standing I played poker semi-professionally for on the sidelines being like, “Oh, I can do a few years before competitions started that,” even though I had only been DJing going well. That’s what let me buy a lot of for a year and clearly couldn’t do that. But my equipment, just doing a lot of poker, so everybody thinks that they can do it. Then that’s kind of a “Plan B”. Poker wouldn’t be the next year I entered the battle and it was a replacement for music, but that’s probably the Waterloo regionals, at Starlight again. I what I’d be doing if I wasn’t doing this remember I got on stage, and it was my first right now. But I feel like if for some reason time on stage I think, in front of anybody I never got into music, I’d probably do actually scratching. I remember feeling like boxing or something like that - some kind my hand was cement. I could barely move of solo competitive sport. it because it was so tight, and I could barely move. When we were making routines,

So you wouldn’t do a 9-5?

The entire reason I got into poker was because I had a 9-5 that was so draining and so monotonous. And it just made me so mad because all I wanted to do was DJ, and then I got home and wouldn’t want to make music. So I desperately wanted to do anything I could so I didn’t have to work a 9-5. So somehow, I got into playing poker.

I figured if I could make enough playing poker I could make my own hours and do music, and somehow it actually worked out.

What did you go to university for?

Philosophy. I really like philosophy. You shouldn’t really go to school... actually you shouldn’t really do many things in life with the purpose of trying to make a living or doing something that’s practical, like in the business world. You should just do what you like, because it’s a lot harder to find something that you truly like to do than it is to find something you can make money at. I think it’s a lot easier to do something that you like and find a way to monetize it, than finding something you can make money at and then trying to find a way to like it. You can’t really trick yourself into liking something that you hate. That’s why I like philosophy. If I had to, I’d find a way to do a job with it, but right now I’m focusing on music.

world finals and not many people do well at their first world finals. Winning the first world title was crazy, but then winning the second one made it so I wasn’t like a one hit wonder or anything. Winning the IDA was significant because no Canadian has won that. And no one ever has won the DMC and the IDA world titles in the same year.

Do you have a favourite artist?

My favourite artists are Public Enemy and Beastie Boys, because they both have really high energy hip-hop music. But also, both of them existed in a period of hip-hop where the technology was getting really good for making beats and music. Like before it was drum machines and stuff, and everything was really minimal, but then technology started getting good. And it was before copyright laws started kicking in and suing everybody, so theres a period where hip-hop was at it’s peak freedom in a way - they could sample anything they wanted and not deal with any legal repercussions.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years?

Hopefully I’m just making music full time. Hopefully I’ve got a lot of albums out, with enough security financially and otherwise that I can just keep making music.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

What’s your most memorable gig?

It’s pretty hard not to say both the DMC and the IDA world finals. I didn’t expect to win any world titles last year, my rough goal was to get 5th in something, just arbitrarily. It was my first time at the

I’d probably be an owl, I guess, because I rarely ever sleep at night. I’m always working at night.

DJ Vekked. (Photo courtesy of sneakersandale.com)

Mental health movies Jaclyn Brown Staff You wake up slowly in the morning, wincing at the light spilling through the blinds. Walking over to the mirror, you stare at the reflection and don’t quite recognize the person staring back. Your skin feels a size too small, an ache in your stomach begs you to return to bed, and you can’t fathom the point of another day. You leave for morning class and put on a happy façade. No one will know…

Mental illness is something the media has told us to cover up, that for every pain there is a product, and we will never quite be enough. Take a breath, things are changing for the better and Hollywood is making strides for transparency with mental illness. They are embracing it in a new and quirky way, embodying how mental illness is temporary, natural, and nothing to be ashamed of. Hollywood’s typically image obsessed cinematography has taken a turn for the best with films that

not only provide a relatable pick-me-up, but also challenge the negative stigma attached to mental illness. These two eccentric films have portrayed mental illness in a light of self-discovery, transformation, honesty, and humor. Watching one of these flicks may be a surprisingly relatable remedy for those days when your bed won’t let you leave.

best natural remedies. Craig’s maturity makes helps him fit in and he finds himself in a comfortable place where his creativity aids in coping with some lingering inner demons. By exploring mental illness as an opportunity, self-discovery proves a powerful resource. And I mean come on, there’s nothing like a little Galifianakis to bring a smile back to your face.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

This melancholy comedy explores the contemplative and clinically depressed mind of 16 year old Craig Gilner. After attempting suicide, he realizes personal change is self-inflicted and admits himself to an adult psychiatric ward. He meets Bobby (played by Zach Galifianakis) who shows him around. Through an awkward friendship they teach each other acceptance and courage are some of the

Two unique paths intertwine as Pat and Tiffany find an unusual common ground with similar track records peppered with the aftermath of mental health issues. Pat is compulsive and suffers from aggressive OCD, and Tiffany’s sex addiction inherently defines her. Through socialization and self-exploration, the two learn how to live with their mental illness. Tiffany’s love for dance creates a quirky platform for

the pair to learn how to define themselves apart from their disease. As the family, friends, and the pair learn how to cope the movie follows the healing process instead of seeking a curing process. Through eccentrically emphasizing mental illness as a transformation, this movie highlights the impact creativity and open mindedness can have. Not to mention looking at Bradley Cooper is bound to perk you up a bit too.

So when your skin feels like it’s on backwards, and when your eyes plead to stay shut, take a deep breath and turn to some cinematically soothing therapy. By not letting mental illness define you, you may realize that normalcy isn’t the end goal. Let your creative juices flow and you may be surprised when you look at the reflection one morning and think, “You’re pretty okay after all.”

10

The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

11

The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

SPORTS

Kyle Morrison // sports@thesputnik.ca | @sputniksports

Golden Hawks lose another heartbreaker in OT

After a tough OT loss against Windsor (above) Laurier lost their second straight in OT against Queen’s, 40-34. (Photo by Kim Jackson)

Kyle Morrison Sports Editor

In front of a sea of purple and gold, Laurier fans and students celebrated an incredibly exciting Homecoming game against Windsor that Laurier came so close to winning, falling in overtime on a blocked 42-yard field goal attempt.

Unfortunately, the Golden Hawks faced a similar fate this past weekend against the number five ranked Queen’s University Golden Gaels. The Hawks fought hard, but lost 40-34.

The Hawks seemed to have one of the best teams in the country on the ropes, after the first half paving the way for a huge upset during Queen’s first Homecoming game in five years.

After Queen’s struck first with a 54-

yard touchdown pass, Laurier answered back with two touchdown passes of their own, one from Quarterback James Fracas to Greg Nyhof for 22 yards, and another to Wide Receiver, Scott Campbell for 56 yards, giving them a 20-9 lead at halftime.

This was not new for the Golden Hawks, who had the lead going into the second half against Windsor the week before.

But Laurier seemed determined to change their fate this time, ending the third quarter with a 27-16 lead.

It was a wild fourth quarter that spun things in the home team’s favour.

Queen’s tied the game with less than three minutes to play thanks to a rushing touchdown by Scott Macdonell, and then

took the lead on their next possession.

The Golden Hawks were left with little time to get a touchdown in order to force OT. It was Fracas that led the way on an incredible drive 81 yards down the field and with 15 seconds to go Laurier tied the game 34-34 on a pass to Nyhof.

The Golden Hawks QB certainly had his best game of the season, throwing for 359 yards (his second straight 300 yard game) and four touchdowns.

This set the stage for another exciting finish for the Golden Hawks, one that - as so many times before - Laurier finished on the wrong end of. Even though it was Laurier with the field goal block in overtime in Saturday’s game and not

the opponent, somehow things went awry. On the block, the ball bounced into Laurier’s end zone and recovered

by Queen’s Aaron Gazendam for the touchdown and the victory.

Laurier, now 1-5, will finish their season at home against McMaster (3-3).

They will be hard-pressed to get a win, but they have shown the past two weeks that they’re fighters and can at least hang with the best teams in the country. There have been small shimmers of light and improvement that can be taken into next season, but it goes without saying that this was one of the worst seasons in recent history for Laurier Golden Hawks men’s football.

Concussions in sports: Alex Young's story Anthony Fusco Staff Whenever a person suits up for their sport, they run the risk of getting injured.

It can be as minor as a bruise or as severe as a broken bone. However, one injury that could potentially be the most serious of them all was often dismissed. I’m talking about the concussion.

A concussion is defined as “temporary unconsciousness caused by a blow to the head. Also, loosely, after effects such as

confusion or temporary incapacity.” If you think about it, concussions are incredibly scary injuries that we are only beginning to understand today.

It’s terrifying to think of what a concussion actually is. When you suffer a concussion, your brain is shifted and rattled around in your skull and slams into the bony surface. You might lose consciousness, but, more often than not, you remain awake.

Signs and symptoms i n c l u d e , among others: dizziness, n a u s e a , confusion and headaches.

Concussions in hockey have come to the forefront of discussions in recent years. We are just learning the deadly reactions of years of trauma on the brain.

Did concussions and PostConcussion Syndrome have a hand in the deaths of former players Wade Belak,

Rick Rypien, and Derek Boogard?

Mark Savard’s NHL career was ended by vicious hits to the head that left him with severe concussions. Even more recently, the face of the NHL, Sidney Crosby, was sidelined for a large chunk of time with concussion like symptoms.

Before people understood how serious concussions really were, they were sent right back out onto the ice and didn’t miss a shift. I was able to speak to Alex Young, who was a former AAA hockey player. He suffered from a few concussions throughout his hockey career.

When asked about his first one Young said, “To be honest I don’t even really remember my first concussion. I remember going into a corner and getting rocked by a defenceman coming around the back of the net. I was flat on my back but I struggled to my skates and went to our bench. Coach asked if I was alright and I said yes. I took a regular shift for the rest of the game.”

Young did feel something after the game was over, however. “When I got home, that’s when it started. I felt dizzy and my head was pounding. We went to the hospital and I was diagnosed with a concussion. At that time I didn’t know much about them, but I can tell you that I never wanted to have one again. But obviously that didn’t last.”

Young continues on his concussion story by telling me about another really bad one he had. “We were in the finals of one of our tournaments. I carried the puck across the opposing blue line with my head down and got hit by one of the other team’s

players – hard. I blacked out on the ice for a few seconds. It was really scary. I was taken to the dressing room after and told I was done for the series. I suffered from postconcussion symptoms for a month and a half after that. It was an awful experience.”

I asked Young what he thinks of hearing all the new information about concussions today. He says, “I wish I knew that stuff when I was playing. With all the new information and prevention available I never would have gone back out after getting slammed to the ice. I wouldn’t have rushed back to play again had I known it could be detrimental to my health.”

Concussions are an ever present danger in sports today. Thankfully, we are now beginning to understand these brain injuries. Safety is priority number one and the more we know about these injuries, the more we can take measures to prevent them.

Concussions have become a serious issue in North American sports. (Art by Rebecca Duce)

12

The Sputnik // Wednesday, October 9, 2013

OPINION Cody Groat // opinion@thesputnik.ca | @sputnikopinion

The dangerous depiction of suicide on television Hannah Brunsdon Contributor I love watching television, a lot. As a first year student, I probably spend more time than I actually should watching it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my break from thinking, and after an hour and a half on Machiavelli, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to not think about anything anymore, if possible.

So, naturally, I come home after class on a Monday, turn on my TV to watch the newest episode of How I Met Your Mother and I find myself disappointed after watching it. Last year I stopped watching Glee for the same reason.

Now, some of you must be thinking, how could you be disappointed with these magnificent shows? Well, Sputnik readers, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m here to tell you that as someone who has dealt with anxiety and depression, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m pretty upset about the way these TV shows have portrayed suicide. How I Met Your Mother offended me not just by throwing around the word suicide like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condoms during a safe sex convention, but by having episodes where someone commits, or is about to commit, suicide portrayed as a joke. Glee is, in my mind, probably the worst offender because not only do they also joke about and discuss suicide inappropriately, they also had a character at-

tempt suicide in an episode. I literally had to watch Dave Karofsky (played by Max Adler) almost kill himself. Not only did they not deal with it appropriately, there was no trigger warning or note at the end discussing where people could get help.

Although Adlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portrayal was deeply moving, Glee should have followed the lead of Degrassi. In 1991, Degrassi High had a character commit suicide, and after the episode they had the actor discuss resources for people who are feeling suicidal.

More recently, another Degrassi character committed suicide and they had a special episode afterwards to discuss the character, resources, and how to help a suicidal friend. A topic as serious as suicide should not be taken lightly or joked about, and I was disappointed in Glee because they underestimated the power their show carries and the potential positive influence and educational opportunity they missed.

Perhaps I am a little too sensitive on the topic, having experienced depression and known people who have been suicidal, but I think these shows could have done it more respectfully and tastefully. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me wrong, talking about suicide is very impor-

tant because studies done by many mental health institutions, including The Crisis Centre, have shown talking about suicide has not made it worse, but it makes people feel better. It opens up the door for people to discuss how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling and hopefully get help they need.

What bothers me is the misrepresentation of suicide and, even worse, the jokes about it. That doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t open up the conversation, it creates more barriers by diminishing peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experiences and emotions, trying to get a laugh from them. If you or someone you

Man, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so depressed

know is feeling suicidal or just needs to talk, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to use the resources our school and community provides. Maybe next time before you laugh at or make a joke out of suicide, think twice.

Suicide on TV. (Art by Rebecca Duce)

Cody Groat Opinion Editor Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be honest. When Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m stressed about an upcoming exam that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve hardly read any of the relevant material for, or when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking outside and see storm clouds in the distance, or when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m generally just bummed out one day, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll turn to a friend and say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Man, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so depressed.â&#x20AC;? Although it seems like such a simple and easy phrase to use given my downtrodden attitude at the time, I really should stop because, in reality, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not depressed. And by saying my go-to-catchphrase on those downtrodden days, I may only be making it worse for the people who are actually suffering from real, clinically diagnosable depression and I may not even know it at the time.

By throwing around a term when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not really relevant, just for a word to say, the term becomes moot. Look at LOL as an

example. Although â&#x20AC;&#x153;laughing out loudâ&#x20AC;? when you actually just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anything to say is totally different than diminishing a mental health issue. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), â&#x20AC;&#x153;almost ten percent of Canadians experience a mood disorder at some point in their lives.â&#x20AC;? That person you turn to could be one of the 3.5 million effected by a chemical imbalance that makes people feel that, according to CMHA, â&#x20AC;&#x153;there is no light at the end of the tunnel- there is just a long dark tunnel.â&#x20AC;?

Your choice of words could make someone feel that maybe their thoughts arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as bad as they actually could be, you may make them feel stigmatized, make them feel that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s irrelevant for them to seek help.

People shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to feel this. Getting

help isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a sign of weakness, in fact, in my eyes, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sign of bravery. Realizing something is wrong may be hard, and realizing that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay to get help may be harder.

Realizing that something is wrong and that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay to get help is incredible and brave.

What happens if you are just sad, maybe you are just low? Regardless, talking to someone, even a professional, is beneficial.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s say you are suffering from clinical depression. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just helped yourself on the road to finding that light, because it is there, for everyone, no matter how hard it may be to see at this moment.

There is a flip-side though, one that needs to be considered. What happens if on a day when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gloomy outside, a day when a friend may be behind on readings, or a day when a friend seems especially

bummed out and turns to you saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m depressed.â&#x20AC;? You should never treat it like a joke, never think theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lying, because you never know. Simply asking â&#x20AC;&#x153;how can I helpâ&#x20AC;? may not only show a glimmer of that light, but possibly save a life.

Laurier Brantford offers several servicesfor students who need to talk to someone about the very real problem of depression, free of charge, and fully anonymous. If by chance the school professionals feel our school services arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t adequate, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll recommend you to others in the community who can help. Keep that in mind: there is always someone there to help. There is always someone that cares.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not alone.

the rest of the year, our attitudes and true thoughts towards those that suffer from depression or bi-polar disorder can - and needs - to change.

As someone who has a couple of close family members affected by mental health illnesses, I suppose I am more sensitive towards people making snarky comments about this issue than most. But even this last week I have noticed from my peers and colleagues a lack of consideration, or awareness, towards people who say they are depressed, ill, or have just been suffering and sad for a long time.

Where we have come a long way over the past few years is in regards to the fact that these disorders are now considered by most people as real, disruptive things that are hard to deal with. But where we fall short is our failure to acknowledge or admit that they are far more prevalent than &1) 24* we realize. It is not just the person on TV that speaks out about it like Clara Hughes or Metta World Peace. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just our â&#x20AC;&#x153;momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sisterâ&#x20AC;? that has really had

a hard life. It can be your neighbour, your brother, your best friend. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just a â&#x20AC;&#x153;diseaseâ&#x20AC;? that means we have to act differently around them and respect them in a different light. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a part of life, a combination of many things; some inherited, some learned.

But the most crucial part is that we understand why this is so important. It is not just so that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offend victims of mental illness, but that it becomes more acceptable for people to get help. Whether we like it or not, there is still a stigma attached to having some form of mental illness. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen one of my family members refuse to admit their condition for a long time, just because they could not accept that it could happen to them. Because, according to the stigma, it means you have to be really messed up right? You have to have had a really rough life. And so my family member put off getting the help that they needed, that they deserved, because they were â&#x20AC;&#x153;strongerâ&#x20AC;? than that. They thought that admitting their situation would make them weaker, but that is not the case. Mental illness comes in so many different forms and the causes are countless.

Life is crazy and does not follow any patterns. Life can be awesome and life can suck. By changing our attitudes and thoughts to be less judgemental of others and be more aware of the struggles we all face, we can collectively help those struggling with mental illness. And maybe even help you.

Mental health awareness: We have a long way to go Dillon Giancola Features Editor Mental health awareness, as a movement, has gained a lot of momentum over the last couple of years. In Canada, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had a huge boost in part by Bell contributing monetary donations to mental health research with every text sent on Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk Dayâ&#x20AC;?, and daily talk shows or newspapers making the effort to have a mental health awareness show or issue. But what, really, has World Mental Health Day,

which this year falls on Thursday, October 10, accomplished? The fact that it has been around since 1992 will surprise most of us.

I am not trying to be pessimistic, but rather to get us to consider that maybe there is still more that can be done in the name of awareness. We celebrate a day once a year and feel good about ourselves when we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t judge those that go through something that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand. But for

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