* WARNING: This story contains references to childhood trauma, domestic abuse and sexual assault.
A story of recovery: ‘I don’t know what I would have done without Waypoint’
In recognition of Mental Health Month, one local woman is opening up about the decades-long journey that brought her from trauma and despair to a life of resilience, healing and hope.
Marnie, a Penetanguishene-area resident in her 60s, has weathered more hardship than most endure in a lifetime. Born and raised in Toronto, she had a difficult childhood shaped by a turbulent home environment.
“I grew up in a landmine situation,” she said, recalling the instability of an alcoholic father and a mother suffering from trauma and mental health issues.
Marnie is a skilled artist, but she pursued a practical path after high school, studying legal secretarial work in college. She dipped into modelling for a time and later worked in administrative roles. She had dreams of becoming a clothing designer, but life took a detour in the 1980s when she married a man who would become both mentally and physically abusive.
It seemed like he was to dream for, but he turned out to be the worst nightmare.
Marine, Waypoint Patient
As if that weren’t enough, Marnie was twice diagnosed with breast cancer, but she beat the odds and overcame the disease with determination. Sadly, another trauma would soon follow. After her final chemotherapy session, Marnie was attacked and sexually assaulted in an underground garage. The assault left the then 30-year-old with a fractured skull and deep psychological wounds.
“It’s a violation of your whole being,” she said. “I did not feel safe anymore. It took a long time for me to even go out by myself.”
After relocating to Simcoe County, Marnie lost her mother after seven years of providing care. Her anxiety surged and she felt close to collapse. But reaching out for help at her doctor’s office became the first step toward recovery. Through Waypoint Outpatient Services, Marnie received therapy and individual counselling to help manage her post-traumatic stress disorder. Marnie was referred to Rehabilitation Services, which includes Recreation and Employment. She joined the Hiking Group and later became employed in a transitional workplace with Chigamik and Employment Services. After 15 months working at the front desk, providing COVID-19 screening and customer service, it was time for Marnie to move forward. With strong encouragement and support, she found a job working as a Unit Clerk at a long-term-care home and continues to bring joy and support to families and residents.
She is clear about one thing: she owes much of her recovery to the support she received.
I don’t know what I would have done without Waypoint Rehab Services. I am so grateful for the help I received. It gave me a lifeline.
Marine
To help Waypoint continue to provide help and hope to people like Marnie, consider donating.