Billy Talent

"I really felt like my life was falling apart. I had always wanted to be a drummer in a rock band but was told I should 'take it easy'. I remember saying 'yea right' in my head. I didn't let something like Multiple Sclerosis get in the way of me becoming who I was supposed to become."

- Aaron Solowoniuk from the band Billy Talent

Paige Lawson
19, from London

My Story

“At the age of 12, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder. Both of these conditions made learning in a classroom environment a challenge. At that time, my school board didn't have the resources to deal with my disorders. I realized that there was a strong need for mental health awareness within my community.

After completing my Ontario Secondary School diploma online, I applied for the United Way of London and Middlesex's Youth In Action Program. It allows youth to receive up to $1000 to carry out a project to better their community.

Working with the Canadian Mental Health Association, my project, Direct Resources for Education Alternatives and Mental Health (DREAM) provides a student workshop that discusses mental illnesses, how to recognize and support students, and how to reach out for help.

Two London district school boards have launched the DREAM project. It's a great resource for phys-ed teachers. We play interactive games with students to keep them involved and interested, and we connect and inform them about local resources.

Within a 12-week time frame, we reached over 20 classes. We're continuing to speak at schools and often have audiences of up to 200 students.”

Learning experience

“The DREAM Project started as a small idea, and grew into something that hundreds of students, families and teachers have been able to access. My most amazing experiences are receiving feedback from people who were able to find and reach out for help because of my project and my advocacy for mental health. I imagine these people as myself several years ago, and I feel grateful that I have been able to impact their lives.”

Get Inspired

“Through this experience I have learned the power of believing in yourself. Youth today have an exceptional amount of opportunity and power to change the world. There are so many ways to reach out and help. If there is something that you are passionate about, reach out and grab it!”

Paige Lawson received Youth in Motion's Top 20 Under 20 Award for her development of the DREAM Project. She has assisted the Thames Valley District School Board in developing a five-year strategic mental health plan. She's also a member of the United Way Youth In Action Advisory Committee that selects and funds projects like her own. She is now attending Mohawk College.