Photo Rights: Andrew Lawton Campaign
In response to a planned peaceful demonstration Saturday afternoon in front of the campaign office of Conservative Party of Canada candidate Andrew Lawton, myFM requested a statement from Lawton or his campaign team.
We were sent the following comment which is from Lawton’s Facebook post on March 14th, where these issues were addressed.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been open about my struggles with mental illness. I nearly succeeded in taking my own life in 2010 during a battle with depression that lasted throughout adolescence and into my early twenties.
In that time, I was reckless, self-destructive, and said and did things that were deeply hurtful. Anyone who’s suffered with mental illness, or stood by a loved one who has, knows all too well the erratic and irrational behaviour it can elicit. Many endure this battle privately. For me, at the time of my illness, social media became an unfortunate and extremely negative outlet.
My past comments as a young man have been publicized at length, and I remain deeply ashamed of my conduct throughout this period.
I am grateful for those in my life who stuck by me and those who gave me a second chance to define myself as I am.
Had I succumbed to my demons, I would not be able to live the life I’m living now – with my intelligent and beautiful wife, my embrace of faith, my successful career, and the opportunity to run in the upcoming election.
Since my past statements first came to light a decade ago, I have achieved many things I’m proud of. I’ve written two bestselling books and have done countless interviews with mainstream media outlets. I’ve spoken at numerous events across the country. I’ve written and reported on stories that have shaped national discourse. I’ve also channelled my past into advocacy, volunteering on the board of Suicide Prevention Middlesex-London and periodically speaking about suicide prevention and mental illness stigma.
The people in my life see me and know me for who I am today. I cannot undo my past, but I can live by example and continue to be the best man I can be.”
