On October the 7th in Ottawa Oshoowa Doorn, from Regina, was presented with Bill Jefferies Family Member Award.

 As the original founder of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada (SSC), Bill Jefferies has made an immeasurable contribution towards the support of caregiving families who have relatives with schizophrenia.  

This award was established to recognize and encourage those family members of persons with schizophrenia who, in spite of the discrimination associated with the illness and the personal difficulty endured by their role as caregivers, have made outstanding voluntary contributions towards the SSC’s mission: To improve the quality of life for those affected by schizophrenia and psychosis through education, support programs, public policy, and research.

A very enthusiastic young man came to the SSS office in the fall of 2005.The young man was ten year old Oshoowa Doorn, whose grandmother had schizophrenia. She had passed away a few months before, and at that time he decided that he wanted to do something in her memory. Ron, his father, thought the idea would pass as time went on but instead the plan was developing.

        Oshoowa’s grandmother was doing quite well when she passed away from a heart attack, but he had known her when she was very ill, so he knew the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia. He wanted other people to know about schizophrenia and that help is available.

        His plan was to have a  fund raiser in the form of a walk, or as he put it, “ just moving on a skateboard, biking or running”. He had created a logo that was a brain with arms, legs and a face that was named “Brian the brain”. This logo appeared on all the promotional material and on a T-shirt that was worn by participants. The event was called Steps and Strides for Schizophrenia Walk.

 Oshoowa was not only creative, he was concerned that the money used to fund the walk was used wisely and only when needed. He had thought through many of the obstacles and problems that would arise. He knew it would take allot of planning and work. Even at ten he was showing integrity, honesty and a strong sense of being responsible. He wanted all money raised to go towards awareness and education about schizophrenia. He said it best as he outlined the goals for the walk at the First Annual Walk, “we are here for three reason,1) to raise awareness and educate about schizophrenia, 2) to raise funds and 3) to have fun.”

         The walk was Oshoowa’s idea so he was involved with the planning and organizing. He did several interviews on TV, radio and for the local newspaper to promote the walk. The support of his parents and family was evident in many of the things he was involved with. He represented and promoted the walk in a positive and upbeat way. Education and awareness had already begun.

         The walk was a success because the objectives were met. About $12,000.00 were raised, education and awareness were taking place and yes, we had fun. But more than that, it pulled people together for a common goal. The staff at the SSS office, the Board, family members, people living with schizophrenia and volunteers worked together in a new way. Contacts and friendships were made.  Since then 2 more walks have been completed with Osh’s help and vision. 

Both have been extreamly successfull and we look forward to doing it again next year.

Congratulations Oshoowa for receiving this tremendous award!