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Distress Centre reminds people `No one is alone' Editor's Note: The following was written by a volunteer with Distress Centre Oakville. Volunteers and the centre itself maintain a confidential identity and location. Centre volunteer co-ordinator Brenda Buchanan said, "We know this time of year can be difficult for many. We're here to listen and provide emotional support. Our phonelines are available every day, including all statutory holidays. Crisis Chat is available two to three times a week, and the date and time of the next available session is included at the top of our website at www. distresscentreoakville.com. respond to this? place than when we started. I I paused, took a breath and was exhausted, relieved and so trusted my training. I typed: very grateful. `I'm glad you reached out. I've volunteered with the What's going on?'" Distress Centre for more than 10 This started a lengthy years and have answered many exchange between me and calls ranging from loneliness to the `chatter.' I felt her pain, suicide. her fear and her isolation. I When the centre expanded applauded her strength and its services to include online courage to `talk' about it and chatting and texting, I wasn't sure to seek support when she how the connection between needed it most. volunteer and client would be. y first crisis chat started with "I want This was unfamiliar territory for both of us With a voice, you can hear so much through to die." My heart leapt to my throat and we navigated our way through. The chat the words and tone. Emotions are evident. and I froze for a moment. How do I eventually wrapped up with the chatter in a better Would they be with texting? I've discovered that they are. I've realized that even through an online channel a connection forms. Listening and empathy come through loud and clear. It is a highly-focused exchange where it's OK The Minor Oaks Hockey Association Wendel Clark game jersey. to share fears, worries, burdens, joys, hopes (MOHA) is partnering up with Water DeThose who attend are also encouraged to and dreams. Where courage and vulnerability exist on both ends of the line. So, as I reflect on this experience and many others, I offer these reminders to those who ever feel overwhelmed and a little lost. 1. When you think there is no one who cares, you are wrong. 2. When you think you are alone with your troubles, you aren't. 3. When you think there is nowhere to turn., there is. You can call or text with a volunteer at the Distress Centre. You may find sharing a burden may make it lighter. And if I can speak for the many other volunteers who offer their support and caring to those who call or text, we are so glad you reach out to the Centre. You remind us how strong the human spirit is. Thank you for letting us listen. To contact the Distress Centre Oakville, call 905-849-4541. -- Submitted by the Distress Centre Oakville 11 | Wednesday, December 18, 2013 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com M Minor Hockey Day set for Jan. 12 pot Oakville for a fundraiser to help local youths who struggle with the costs to play the sport. The Minor Hockey Day will be held on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014 at Water Depot Oakville, 2251 Westoak Trails Blvd. From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., the Hockey Hall of Fame shooting board will be in the parking lot and for $2, participants can test their skills and win prizes, such as an autographed drop off used hockey equipment, which will be donated to MOHA. In addition, participants will get the chance to win a VIP hockey day in Toronto, which includes a tour of the Hockey Hall of Fame, two tickets to a Toronto Maple Leafs game versus the Winnipeg Jets in April 2014, dinner and overnight accommodations. For more information about the event or the MOHA, visit www.moha.ca. 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