A group of local hockey players are working together with the goal of ending the stigma around mental health.
It is led by college player Aidan Girduckis.
Girduckis is a graduate of the Quinte Red Devils and Wellington Dukes. He is a CCHL Champion, and played in the CJHL Top Prospects game, along with winning a silver medal at the World Junior A Challenge.
During his time playing junior hockey for the Carleton Place Canadians, Girducks says he suffered from depression, and was also diagnosed with ADHD.
He says from an outsider’s perspective, things were great.
Girduckis approached his parents for help. After counselling and medication, Girduckis says things looked up. Thankfully the family had benefits, and were able to cover the cost of treatment. The 20 year old says many are not so fortunate.
He turned to a number of local players, including his older brother Abbott, to see what could be done.
Ten players got together and created Ducky Brand Apparel. Thirty percent of proceeds of the apparel go to support mental health institutions.
SEE BELOW FOR GROUPS THAT BENEFIT
National Institute of Mental Health
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Canadian Mental Health Association
Mental Health America
Youth Mental Health Canada
Children’s Mental Health Ontario
