The holidays. A time for family, friends, and festive cheer. But for those of us in recovery, the holidays can also be a time when the ghosts of Christmas past come back to haunt us. Memories of holidays spent in the throes of addiction, of strained relationships, and of missed opportunities can surface, casting a shadow over the present.
Canada’s veterans and first responders are the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities and our country. They face unimaginable dangers and witness traumatic events that most of us will never experience. While their courage and resilience are undeniable, many carry hidden wounds that run deep — the invisible scars of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the often-associated struggle with addiction.
While the name “Arbutus Fire Hall” might conjure images of sirens and fire trucks, the story of this Powell River landmark has taken an unexpected and heartwarming turn. For years, the fire hall served as a bastion of safety, with dedicated firefighters working tirelessly to protect the community from harm. However, thanks to a powerful collaboration that wouldn’t have happened without the qathet Regional District, the Arbutus Fire Hall is undergoing a profound transformation worthy of it’s history.
