Heather Latter
She’s been called inspirational, genuine, and an amazing speaker, which is why Sandy Skirten, director of services with the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, is sure tickets for Margaret Trudeau’s upcoming talk here will sell out quickly.
“We’ve already sold 170 tickets just by word of mouth,” Skirten noted, adding 430 will be available in all.
“Those who want to attend should not wait until the last minute to buy tickets,” he warned.
Trudeau, the youngest prime minister’s wife in Canadian history when she wed former PM Pierre Elliott Trudeau, will speak at the Townshend Theatre on April 14 about her life experiences, the challenges she faced being in the public eye, and how she overcame a bipolar disorder.
“We’re really pleased that she is coming as part of our 30th anniversary,” said Skirten.
“It’s something we’ve been working on for a number of years and we really think it’s an evening people are going to enjoy,” he added.
Skirten said Trudeau’s address is sure to interest many in the community—from those who might see themselves in her struggles with mental illness to those simply wanting to hear her stories.
“She has a number of fantastic stories to tell, a great sense of humour, and a strong message about the importance of keeping healthy,” Skirten noted.
Trudeau stories stem from her interesting life as a prime minister’s wife, raising five children, and travelling the country and the world extensively, as well as suffering from the debilitating effects of her bipolar condition throughout her adult life.
But after seeking medical treatment, she now has happiness and a balanced life—and advocates strongly on mental health issues.
Trudeau currently is working with the Royal Ottawa Hospital to raise funds for its new hospital as well as raise public awareness of mental health issues.
She also sits on the executive advisory board of the UBC Mental Health Institute as a community advocate.
Trudeau has authored three books, including her latest, “Changing My Mind,” which topped the best-sellers charts. It outlines her bipolar condition and her journey of recovery, acceptance, and hope.
Skirten indicated the book will be available to purchase during Trudeau’s visit here, and she will be on hand to sign copies following her one-hour talk.
Tickets, which cost $20 each, are available Monday-Friday at 414 Scott St.
Skirten said those attending also are being asked to bring along a non-perishable food item, which will be donated to the local food banks.
“We’re very pleased to host this evening and we’ve already had such a positive response,” he enthused.
“It is sure to be a great evening.”
