Registration is now open for the second annual Mike Lalande Memorial Golf Tournament. The event is set for June 6, at the Prescott Golf Club.
Lalande took his own life in November of 2018, at the age of 26. Every dollar raised will go to the Mental Health & Addictions Health Hub for Children & Youth, based out of the Kemptville District Hospital. Last year’s event brought in $10,500.
Amanda Fitzgerald, Lalande’s sister, says instead of dwelling on her loss, she decided to do something positive. She noted the goal is to end the stigma around mental illness by getting people to talk about it.
Fitzgerald explained she chose the mental health hub because it’s local and just starting out. She says it’s an initiative close to her heart because Mike went to the hospital a few times seeking help, but the resources weren’t in place. She noted she doesn’t want Mike’s story to end.
Over 140 golfers took part in last year’s tournament. The cost is $100 per person, which includes 18 holes and dinner.
Fitzgerald says she’s looking for sponsors and auction items to bolster fundraising efforts. For more information, check out the 2nd Annual ML Memorial Golf Tourney event page on Facebook or email [email protected].