Christine Whelan, FEO, September 17, 2026, Volume 8, Issue 1
We Gotta Talk, designed to foster open conversation about suicide and overdose prevention, returns on October 3, bringing mental health and addiction service providers together at the Fort Erie Leisureplex Banquet Hall.
Last year, a collaboration gathered in a comfortable, safe environment to share knowledge and experiences and start conversations. Many stood up from all walks of life, shared their truths with the room, didn’t back away from the hard facts, and, at times, offered inspiration and hope.
“Lean On Me” served as the theme song for the karaoke portion of the event and was sung in Ojibwe.
Founder Russ Young said he got a several-month head start on planning this year’s event. Last year, they threw it together in a matter of weeks. The team has been meeting regularly at their headquarters, the Red Coffee Cafe in Fort Erie. The growing attendance is now filling the cafe.
Young shared an insight into the backbone of this event. “The people who help are probably helping because it helps them,” he added, noting that it’s therapy for him as well.
Russ’ exposure to suicide, which he called “the fuel that started this fire”, and the push to organize We Gotta Talk began when he was in Grade 2. Years later, when he discovered the truths about certain “accidents” over the years, Russ began to ask questions. “I wanted to know everything I could about suicide.”
He says he’s given out over 600 Narcan to those at risk.
“The drugs used to kill your bank account now kill you. These new street drugs have changed the game.”
The We Gotta Talk Team
Along with Russ, “Theresa Murphy is a source of knowledge in administration; Heather Kelley is a great organizer; Jeff Hill is our Indigenous advisor; Jim Macaffery is our information advisor; Les Lakewood is our link to the Pride community; Claire McLean is our connection to the RCMP; Sondra Barrett is our multicultural connection; Psychotherapist Megan Kelley is our in-house teammate who advises on confusing terminology; and Monica Witvoet is our purse keeper.”
Young admitted, “Last year, I couldn’t get anyone to fork over ten bucks. This year, we have people offering money.”
Gratitude for the Support
On behalf of the team, Russ thanked their supporters. “The United Way donated $1,500, and Ron Braley of Alexander Tools Ltd. donated $1,000. Dave Walker gave me $250 last week and said to use it for whatever I think is needed.”
Speakers
Roderick McDowell, Lindsey Fennessey, Tracey Scheafer Burger, and Jamie Culp will share personal stories. Keynote speaker Kenney Jessop will speak.
First Responders and Service Providers
A panel covering a variety of related topics will include Psychotherapist Steve Balz on the long-term effects of abuse; harm reduction with Rhonda Thompson; a Narcan demonstration by Doctor of Pharmacy Sarah DeLeeuw; Cassandra Higgs, a survivor of postpartum; Fort Erie School of Music; and Josephine Lavallee on Indigenous trauma.
Karaoke
Russ said the karaoke portion of the event is better developed this year than last year. “This year, I put it out to the team to think of some therapy songs,” creating a prepared playlist. “DJ Chris is giving us a karaoke team for a really good deal.”
Playlist
- Love Sweet Love
- I Am Not Okay – Jelly Roll
- Fight Song—Rachel Platten
- Rise Up -Andra Day or Parachute Club
- Here Comes the Sun – Beatles
- Ok not to be OK -Marshmello & Demi Lovito
- Lean on Me – Bill Withers
- Stand by Me
- Stand Up Stand Up – Bob Marley
- Thank you for being my friend
- The Sound of Silence – Simon and Garfunkel
The list is just to get things started. Do you have another suggestion? Or maybe pick a song from the list and start practising for October 3.
Doors open at 11:00 am and remain open until 4 pm at the Fort Erie Leisureplex Banquet Hall. All first responders are welcome. There will be an elimination draw.
Vendors and speakers can register at wegottatalk@gmail.com. Vendor tables are available for $20.
By creating safe spaces for honest discussion, we work to break the silence, offer hope and support, and build a community where every life is valued and no one faces a crisis alone.
