The Schizophrenia Society of Ontario (SSO) will host its annual Peace of Minds Walk to help breakdown the stigma and the discrimination that people affected by schizophrenia and mental illness face. Eleven communities across Ontario will participate in this awareness initiative including Peterborough.

Last year thousands of people across the province took to the streets to walk with the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario and show their support of families and those affected by schizophrenia.

“Each year the number of participants in our Peace of Minds Walk increases and this is a clear demonstration of the positive steps we are making to help fight the stigma associated with this illness”, says Mary Alberti, Chief Executive Officer of the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario. “Our hope is that the public will start to see schizophrenia in the same light as they would any other disease and come together to support the families and individuals affected.”

James Weber has been an active supporter of the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario for several years now and has organized the past eight Peace of Minds Walk events within the Toronto region. Mr. Weber will also serve as the Provincial Honorary Chair for the 2012 Peace of Minds Walk. Mr. Weber is a project Manager within the financial industry and lost his first wife 22 years ago to this illness through suicide. 40% of people with schizophrenia will attempt to take their lives, 10% to 15% will succeed.

“I am excited about this initiative because the work SSO does throughout the community to support families and those affected by schizophrenia is truly invaluable,” says James Weber. “SSO is making great strides in providing programs and services for those affected by schizophrenia and I hope that people across the Province will come out and participate in the Peace of Minds Walk to help support this remarkable organization.”

Peterborough will host its Peace of Minds Walk at 2011 Ashburnham Dr. Beavermead Park. For details on the 2012 Peace of Minds Walk visit www.schizophrenia.on.ca or call 705-749-1753.

The Schizophrenia Society of Ontario (SSO) is an organization providing family edication, support, and advocacy on behalf of people and families affected by schizophrenia. SSO leads the way in Ontario in raising awareness about this illness and works to eliminate the stigma surrounding it.