About Writing for Change
I was raised with my younger brother by my parents in Scarborough, Ontario, until the age of 17 when we moved out of the big city to the smaller town of Cobourg. I graduated from high school in Cobourg and began my journey in the field of journalism at Belleville College in Ontario. In 2001, I became a father for the first time. While attending college, I worked part-time as a news reporter for the local radio station in Cobourg and also held a part-time job at a local grocery store.
At the age of 32, I started a new relationship with my girlfriend at the time. I was blessed to become a father again, this time to my daughter. However, things took a wrong turn when I was 33. I struggled with anger issues and was diagnosed with schizophrenia, leading to hospitalization. During those dark years, I turned to alcohol and substances to cope with depression and anger.
Now, at 48 years old, both of my children are doing well, as are their mothers. I’ve come to realize that striving for perfection is impossible; instead, I focus on living a fulfilling life. Writing has always been my passion, and my journalism background paved the way for where I am today. My goal is to continue writing, overcome the stigma associated with mental illness, and gain recognition for my work. I appreciate the courage of others who, like me, have faced their own challenges and pursued their passions despite societal stigmas.
If you’d like to support my writing, please consider donating $5 or more. Your contribution will help me produce more stories and continue sharing my experiences.
Thank you, and may you be blessed!.
J.H.
