Jeff’s Story
Jeff grew up in Saskatoon, in a middle class family with two sisters. After completing high school, Jeff moved on to earn a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan.
As a new graduate Jeff celebrated his accomplishment by backpacking with two friends through Europe and this is when Jeff’s life changed.
Overseas his thoughts became jumbled; he was hearing voices and became extremely impulsive and reckless. Once home, he struggled to keep relationships, a safe place to live, or employment. After being arrested in a psychotic state, Jeff was diagnosed with Schizophrenia.
Jeff suffered countless relapses and experienced homelessness before discovering Crocus Co-op, a local mental health agency supported by United Way of Saskatoon and Area. Crocus provided Jeff with the missing pieces in his life, a safe place to make friends, a chance at meaningful employment, and a nutritious meal.
Now Jeff visits Crocus almost every day. He works part-time in the kitchen and has served as the President on the Crocus’ Board of Directors.
Jeff does not live in shame, and is passionate about breaking the stigma that still surrounds mental health.