“I am glad donors recognized the need for Humber’s Mental Health Programs and helped bring them about,” says Steven. “I definitely could have benefitted from these earlier in my journey, and I am happy they will be there for others facing the same challenges.”

Steven has been under the care of Psychiatrist Dr. Philip Maerov at Humber River Health since he was a teenager. For more than 30 years, Dr. Maerov’s support has been essential in Steven’s mental health journey and ongoing recovery.

“Since my first visit at Humber, Dr. Maerov has really been there for me. When I was first placed in his care, he sat with me and talked with me. I felt he was really listening and truly understood,” says Steven. “Whenever I’ve needed him, he was there without question.”

Throughout his life, Steven faced numerous challenges. Yet, his determination never wavered. He attended therapy sessions and received crucial family support.

Steven’s mother, a special education teacher, emphasized the importance of their strong support system. “Many parents would have given up, but we persisted. Steven’s journey has been challenging, but our support system has been strong,” says Steven’s mother.

Steven’s mother is equally grateful for the support he received from his team at Humber River Health. “To me, Dr. Maerov has been a critical part of Steven’s recovery. He proactively adjusted his medications, referred specialists, and tried new treatments as they became ineffective over the years,” says Steven’s mother. “This support really helped us all.”

Despite significant barriers, Steven excelled academically, earning multiple degrees in liberal arts and community services. Driven by a desire to give back and support marginalized communities, Steven has volunteered at numerous charitable organizations.

“One of my biggest hobbies is giving back. I want to help people because I know how it feels to be down and out,” says Steven.

Humber River Health continues to make significant strides in Mental Healthcare. The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic (CAUCC), which opened in 2018, offers short-term support for children, youth, and families in crisis, aiming to prevent the need for inpatient care through timely intervention and treatment.

Humber River Health is also home to the Jack and Pat Kay Emergency Psychiatric Unit, which addresses immediate psychiatric needs and helps stabilize patients in crisis. These donor-funded programs have significantly enhanced the mental health support available in the community.

“Those programs all sound great! I am glad donors recognized the need for them and helped bring them about,” says Steven. “I definitely could have benefitted from these earlier in my journey, and I am happy they will be there for others facing the same challenges.”

Though his journey to good mental health is lifelong, Steven is driven by hope and excitement for the future. Supported by Dr. Maerov, his specialists, and his family, his story demonstrates the vital importance of supporting mental health within our local community.

*Names and photos have been changed for the comfort of patients and their families.

Support the CAUCC

Through donor support, the CAUCC stands ready to meet the challenges of the future, ensuring that no child or adolescent is left behind in their journey towards mental wellness. Unfortunately, OHIP doesn’t allow for the team-based care that makes this work possible – which is why ongoing support is instrumental in sustaining our efforts. For more information on how to donate, please contact Judene Stewart at justewart@hrh.ca.