When Rowland moved to Canada from Nigeria in October 2011, he brought with him his young children, his wife, and a deep yearning for peace, opportunity, and a better life. Settling in Winnipeg, he found what he was looking for — a country that felt safe, fair, and full of promise. Rowland began working as an Educational Assistant with the Winnipeg School Division, supporting children with autism. “It was an eye-opener,” he recalls, reflecting on how meaningful and fulfilling the work was. But life took an unexpected turn a few years later when he began to experience challenges with his mental health. Anxiety came quietly at first until it became hard to ignore, escalating into severe anxiety and depression, forcing him to step away from the job he loved. Without work, Rowland faced not just emotional and physical hardship, but also a financial crisis. The cost of his mental health medications became overwhelming. “Putting food on the table at home was already a problem,” he explains. “I don’t think I would have been able to put up with what I put up with if not for the help I got.” – Rowland That’s when your generosity made a world of difference. Through the Client and Patient Care Fund at ACCESS Fort Garry, Rowland received coverage for his vital medication. Thanks to your support, this program provides emergency financial assistance for urgent short-term needs such as medications, adaptive equipment, home safety items, and essentials like formula for newborns or work permit fees for newcomers. By addressing these immediate needs, the fund promotes stability, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being, which in turn allows individuals to focus on long-term recovery and self-sufficiency. For Rowland, this help was transformative. He recalls a pivotal moment with a staff member at ACCESS Fort Garry: “She said to me, ‘Have you ever heard of the Victoria Hospital Foundation? I’m working with them to help with your medication costs.’ And then, lo and behold, I was called. They said, ‘Rowland, we are going to be paying for your medication.’ I was almost shedding tears.” Rowland’s care journey included regular visits to Victoria Hospital, where he connected with compassionate nurses, doctors, and a community that gave him strength. Without those medications, he believes he would have faced prolonged hospitalization. He joined the ACCESS Fort Garry Mental Health Activity Group, made possible through the generosity of donors. This initiative offers social connection through outings to the Manitoba Museum and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Thanks to this donor-funded support, he found a sense of belonging that bolstered his recovery and overall well-being. Today, at 61, Rowland manages his condition and feels well. He volunteers with the same school division where he once worked, giving back as you have given to him. His wife’s steadfast support and his children’s admiration for his resilience anchor his journey. Reflecting on mental health, he says, “I used to think it was an extreme condition. Now I know it can affect anyone.” Rowland’s gratitude for your support is profound. “Your money isn’t wasted,” he says. “Many benefit, even if they don’t all say thank you.” He hasn’t been hospitalized in three years—a testament to your impact. “I wish I could hug you all,” he adds. “You help people like me without knowing us. This is my small way of saying thank you for giving me hope and healing.” – Rowland Helping patients like Rowland with short-term needs not only alleviates immediate crises but also reduces hospital admissions, eases pressure on healthcare resources, and strengthens the community’s capacity to thrive by ensuring individuals can live safely and independently at home. Thank you for your wonderful generosity! “ You help people like me without knowing us. This is my small way of saying thank you for giving me hope and healing. Donate Post navigation < BACK NEXT >
