The walk at Galt Gardens aimed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and show support for those affected by schizophrenia and other mental illnesses, May 24, 2023. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

Lethbridge walk raises awareness about schizophrenia

May 24, 2023 | 3:23 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A walk to raise awareness about schizophrenia was held across Alberta, including in Lethbridge on May 24, 2023.

The Lethbridge branch of the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta (SSA) held the Strides of Hope Walk at Galt Gardens to raise awareness, end the stigmas surrounding schizophrenia, and raise funds. The event on May 24 is coincided World Schizophrenia Day.

Walkers and SSA representatives meeting before the walk began, May 24, 2023. (Photo: LNN)

Elikem Mortotsi, program coordinator for SSA’s Lethbridge branch said they are aiming to educate the public about how schizophrenia affects people, since it is a more common condition than many realize.

She explained, “One in 10 people actually have schizophrenia. In Lethbridge, there [are] 100,000 people here or so, and that means more than a thousand people in Lethbridge will experience schizophrenia in their lifetime. So we find that even though it is stigmatized, it is very common.”

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The walk kicked off with performances by the Lethbridge Raging Grannies, who sang three songs, including one they wrote about schizophrenia.

After the performances, the walk began, with some of those involved holding signs as they made their way along the loop at Galt Gardens.

The Lethbridge walk was one of six held across the province on Wednesday. The other walks took place in Calgary, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Camrose and Red Deer, where SSA has branch offices.

Anyone who was not able to participate but is looking to learn more can do so on the organization’s website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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