At South Essex Community Council (SECC), we are proud to support initiatives that bring awareness to mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and promote healing. One such initiative is a beautiful 2025 calendar project led by Adriana Arango, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness whose story embodies resilience and hope.

Adriana’s Story:

I came to Canada from Colombia in 2001 to be with the father of my children, whom I met during a cruise in the Caribbean. For a while, life was what most would call “normal”—work, a home, and raising kids. In 2015, my husband and I decided to part ways amicably after realizing that staying together was no longer healthy for any of us.

In 2017, I met someone who seemed to be a very supportive partner. I made the decision to pursue a fresh start and moved with my children to Kingsville. I sold my home, changed jobs, and left behind my support network in hopes of building a new life. However, the reality of the move and the relationship turned out to be far from what I had expected, leading to immense stress and unhappiness for both me and my children.

Overwhelmed by isolation and regret, I felt trapped and afraid to admit my mistake. I kept my fears to myself and withdrew from those around me. I didn’t talk to anyone about the struggles I was facing, choosing instead to endure in silence. This isolation took a severe toll on my mental health. I reached a point where the darkness felt inescapable, and suicide seemed like the only way out.

In a moment of crisis, emergency services intervened and saved my life. That day marked the beginning of a long but crucial journey toward healing. The months that followed were incredibly challenging, but I found strength in counseling, physical activity, and motivational resources. In early 2020, I found a new sense of purpose by joining SECC, where I could focus on helping others while continuing my own recovery. Around this time, my children and I faced another tragedy with the passing of their father. We supported each other through the grief, which deepened our bond and made us stronger as a family.

Moving to Leamington brought its own set of challenges, but it also brought hope. I discovered peace in nature, especially in the serene sunrises and sunsets at Point Pelee, which became a powerful source of healing. Today, I am a proud mother, a dedicated long-distance runner, a settlement worker, and, most importantly, a woman who has rediscovered joy and purpose. I am committed to bringing light to others who are struggling, showing that even in the darkest times, hope and healing are always possible.

Adriana’s Message of Hope:

Through her work and personal advocacy, Adriana seeks to show that even in life’s darkest moments, hope, healing, and new beginnings are possible. She believes in the transformative power of nature, connection, and compassionate support.

Adriana’s journey reminds us that we are never truly alone, and healing is always within reach when we find the courage to seek help and share our stories.

Support Adriana’s Initiative:

Starting November 18th, you can purchase Adriana’s 2025 calendar at SECC’s Leamington office for $25. A portion of the proceeds from this calendar will be donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and Maryvale Adolescent Family Services to support their missions of promoting mental wellness and providing essential resources. Your contribution helps ensure individuals facing mental health challenges have access to life-changing counseling and support services.

Learn more at cmha.ca and maryvale.ca

Together, let’s continue to spread awareness, hope, and healing. Thank you, Adriana, for sharing your story and your light.