About this Event
On International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, CMHA Calgary’s Survivors of Suicide (SOS) Program invites you to join us for Celebration of Life, an afternoon dedicated to remembrance, reflection, connection, and healing in community alongside others who share lived experiences and have been impacted by suicide in their own unique ways.
Please be aware that event time may differ from what Eventbrite displays. The event begins at 3:30pm and ends at 6:30PM
Together, we will honour and celebrate the lives of those we have lost to suicide, while also recognizing the strength, courage, and resilience of those who continue to navigate grief, loss, and their own mental health journeys. Through shared experiences and meaningful connection, we hope to create a space where everyone's unique journey is acknowledged, every story is valued, and all feel seen, heard, and supported.
Through a guided art activity facilitated by Art Therapist Nyssa Brown, intimate breakout conversations, and opportunities for shared reflection, participants are invited to express themselves, honour the people and experiences that have shaped their lives, and connect with others who understand.
Our breakout sessions will offer opportunities for smaller-group conversations, where participants can share their experiences, listen to others, and reflect together in a supportive and understanding environment. Sharing is always optional, and participants are welcome to engage in whatever way feels most comfortable for them.
Throughout the afternoon, guests will also have opportunities to enjoy light refreshments, connect with one another, and simply be present in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Whether you are remembering a loved one, honouring your own journey, or simply seeking a space of understanding and belonging, Celebration of Life offers an opportunity to come as you are and be met with compassion, care, and community.
Participation in all activities, conversations, and opportunities for sharing is entirely voluntary. Whether you choose to share your story, create, listen, or simply be present, you are welcome.
Honouring Through Art
As part of our guided art activity, guests are invited to submit a photograph of a loved one they wish to remember, someone they would like to honour, or even themselves as a way of recognizing their own journey.
Photographs may be shared with our SOS Team ahead of the event and will be printed at no cost to participants. Photos may be submitted up until the event date, and on-site printing will also be available. Photographs can be submitted via email to [email protected]
Privacy and Care: All submitted photographs will be treated with care and confidentiality. Images and likenesses will be used exclusively for the participant's intended art activity and will not be reproduced, published, distributed, shared, or used by CMHA Calgary for promotional, organizational, or any other purposes. Digital and printed copies retained by the SOS Team will be securely disposed of following the event, with participants retaining their own artwork.
Additional Care & Support
We recognize that gatherings centered around remembrance, grief, and lived experience can bring forward a range of emotions. Members of CMHA Calgary's Peer Services Team, including Peer Support Workers (PSWs), will be on-site throughout the event to offer additional care and support to anyone who may need it. Whether you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, need a moment away from the group, or simply wish to speak with someone, our team will be available to provide a compassionate, understanding, and supportive presence. We encourage everyone to honour their own needs and engage in whatever way feels most comfortable for them.
Accessibility & Additional Information
We are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all participants. If you have accessibility needs, require accommodations, or have questions about what to expect, please reach out to our SOS Team at [email protected] ahead of the event. We will do our best to support your participation.
Agenda
3:30pm – Guest Arrival
4:00pm – Introduction to SOS Team/Program + Housekeeping
4:15pm – Art Activity Workshop hosted by Art Therapist, Nyssa Brown
4:45pm – Break Out Sessions
5:15pm – “A Moment to Share”: folks will have the chance to share about their lived experience
5:55pm – Closing Remarks
6:00pm – Connection Half Hour
6:30pm – Door Close
Event venue & nearby stays
2540 Kensington Rd NW, 2540 Kensington Road Northwest, Calgary, Canada
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