Batting a 1,000 in memory of a colleague
If David Bland is watching from somewhere, what he will see on Friday at South Arm Park will surely make him smile.
July 17 will mark the 11th time since Bland’s death that clients and colleagues from across the MH&A community in Richmond have gathered to hold the Annual Dave Bland Memorial Softball Game.
“Dave just loved baseball,” recalled longtime colleague and friend Scot Elphinstone, a mental health clinician at the Richmond Mental Health Team. “He also lived near South Arm Park, and believed in getting out and active and involved in the community. Remembering him every year in this way seems to marry everything he was, and all he did for his clients.”
Bland, a rehab counsellor and 25-year veteran of the Richmond Mental Health Team, was killed in January 2005 while leaving work. The unspeakable loss initially felt by his colleagues and clients has morphed into a day-long celebration of mental health wellness, access, integration and the breaking down of barriers.
“Although it’s just a ball game, it’s really served to pull community organizations together and, by working more closely together, we’ve improved the way we co-ordinate care for our clients,” said Elphinstone. “I think Dave would be proud to have him name associated with this event.”
Friday’s baseball game is open to all
All staff, physicians, managers, clients, friends and family across VCH Richmond and the local MH&A community is invited to come and enjoy the game. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Or, just come out and cheer on the teams and watch the game from the side lines.
There will be a barbecue and awards ceremony immediately after the game.
More details…
Date: Tomorrow, Friday, July 17, 2015
Time: 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Place: South Arm Community Park, 8680 Williams Road