A Morning That Reminded Us What Connection Can Do

Oct 17, 2025

On Thursday, October 16th, CMHA Calgary along with Purpose Benefits, joined community members, partners the Mancal Group and ARC Resources, and local leaders for Breakfast for Mental Health: Leadership in Action.

The smell of coffee filled the air, greetings and laughter rolled between tables. This wasn’t just a breakfast, it was a morning that reminded us how powerful it is to share stories, listen with compassion, and remember we’re all human first. 

Starting with Heart 

Our morning began with Joy Pavelich, who opened her heart and shared the story of her son, Eric. Every word she spoke was filled with strength and sincerity, reaching everyone present. She reminded us that healing doesn’t mean moving on, it means carrying love forward and holding it close. 

“Love is an action, not just an emotion,” Joy said. “Sometimes, the greatest acts of love don’t have to be huge. A hug. A text. A simple ‘How are you?’ can mean everything on the hardest days.” 

You could feel the whole room take a collective breath. It was a beautiful reminder that small gestures like checking in and offering kindness really do matter. 

The Power of Being Seen 

Then Phil Tyndall, one of our own at CMHA Calgary, shared his journey with depression and suicide idealizations. He talked about the years he spent trying to handle it alone and the courage it took to ask for help. 

“The first time I walked into our Welcome Centre was one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever done,” he said. “But it was also one of the most rewarding because I realized I wasn’t alone.” 

Through peer support, Phil found belonging, and now he spends his days helping others find it too through Recovery College. His story reminded us that connection really can change everything.

“I’m done with shame and stigma,” Phil said, and the room nodded in agreement. 

Leadership with Heart 

To close the morning, Matt Aubrey, CEO of Purpose Benefits, spoke about leadership, specifically what it looks like when empathy leads the way. He shared how workplaces can go beyond awareness and turn conversation into culture change. 

“This isn’t a question of if mental health impacts your workplace—it already does,” Matt said. “The question is how you choose to respond.” 

Matt reminded us that supporting mental health isn’t just something we should do, it’s something that builds stronger, kinder, more resilient communities from the inside out. 

Walking Away Inspired 

As the morning came to an end, people lingered. There were hugs, shared stories, quiet moments, and laughter breaking through the tears. It was one of those mornings that doesn’t leave you when you walk out the door, it stays with you. 

Because even though World Mental Health Day has passed, the work continues. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every time someone reaches out, it all matters. 

To everyone who joined us, thank you. You reminded us that leadership isn’t about standing at the front of the room. It’s about standing beside one another with compassion, courage, and care. 

Together, we’re building a Calgary where mental health is part of every conversation and where no one has to face their story alone.  

CMHA Calgary is always here for you. If you or a loved one is needing support, please check out our website or connect with our Community Navigator.