When Tragedy Strikes

How do we even begin to try to understand what has happened in our community?

My heart is breaking and I’m feeling so sad and slightly overwhelmed by the news today, and I know I’m not alone in that feeling. Trying to make sense of what doesn’t make sense.

This just doesn’t happen HERE, right?

This type of situation effects us a whole. As a community, we’re breaking. We’re reeling from this act of violence.

I’m a Lambton College alumni. I graduated in 1991 and still have so many great memories of the Lions Den, the pub at Lambton College. Even if the pub I remember has changed a little over the years.

How does this happen? How are we sitting here, stunned.

This rips our hearts out and it’s hard to process the emotions that we are all handling right now.

My heart goes out to the families and friends impacted by this situation. I grieve with you and wish I could take away your pain.

This is where community comes together. This is where community gets stronger. By leaning on each other. Listening. Sharing. Caring.

For all those whose lives are forever changed – we’re with you.

For those looking for help in dealing with the feelings – reach out. So many amazing services in our community ready to help and listen.

***If you, or someone you know, is struggling in the wake of this incident, please know that support is available. You are not alone, and there are people and services ready to help you through this.

Lambton Mental Health Response team – 1-800-307-4319
📞 Crisis line- 9-8-8

Canadian Mental Health Association Lambton Kent – Walk-in counselling, crisis support, and community mental health services
Lambton Public Health / Bluewater Health

• Mental health resources, crisis guidance, and community supports
  Victim Services of Sarnia Lambton
• Immediate emotional support, trauma assistance, and referrals
  St Clair Child And Youth
• Support specifically for children, teens, and families
  Ontario-Wide Supports
  Connexontario Health Services Info
• Free, confidential help connecting you to mental health, addiction, and problem gambling services
  Call: 1-866-531-2600 | Text and chat available
  Kids Help Phone
• Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (24/7 support for youth)
  Canada-Wide Resources
  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Call or text 988 for immediate, 24/7 support
  Wellness Together Canada
• Free online mental health and substance use support, including counselling and resources
  Public Safety Canada
• Resources on coping with traumatic events and community safety
  If this situation is affecting you, it is okay to reach out. Whether it is talking to a professional, a friend, or a support line, taking that step matters.

Categorised in: Afternoons

This post was written by Carrie Buchanan