Michelle Bordignon at IOOF Park. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Former Griffith citizen of the year Michelle Bordignon has launched the town’s inaugural “let’s chalk about mental health” day, in which residents will be invited to write positive and uplifting comments in chalk on a walking path and, if desired, talk to others about grief and mental health issues.
The event, supported by Griffith City Council, will take place at IOOF Park, next to City Park, on Saturday 3 September from 12 pm to 2 pm. A big strip of the footpath will be converted into a temporary writing board.
Ms Bordignon, who lost her daughter Stella to suicide in 2019, has been writing in chalk in her own backyard since then, but now feels ready to share the experience with the whole community. Her idea comes from a similar event held in Cairns in Queensland.
“Most people in Griffith have either suffered from a mental health issue or know someone who has … the idea is for people to come along, bring some chalk if you have it, and write something on the footpath,” she said. “It can be a message to a loved one you may have lost, or perhaps something that may inspire someone else … I can’t think of anything more lovely than a path full of quotes.
“You don’t even have to write anything. You can come along to chat. Anyone can attend, stay for the full two hours or just a few minutes. Children can come but we suggest an adult accompanies them.”
Ms Bordingnon has endured three difficult years, but says the pain is eased by connecting with others.
Photo: Region.
“The first year we were in shock. The second year was probably the worst, that’s when it hit hardest … mental health is such a lonely trip, but you don’t have to be alone. We want people to reach out to someone.
“So many people have a beautiful smile, but you don’t know what they’re feeling on the inside.”
Ms Bordingnon has coped with her grief by doing an extraordinary amount of volunteer work. She has continued to run her group Griffith Helping Hands, which she founded in 2017. The group sources clothing, blankets and furniture and distributes them to those in need.
“Every time I drop off a load to a family it makes me feel good, I get a glow,” she said. “Helping others can really help you. There are so many people doing it tough right now but we are lucky to live in a town like Griffith where everyone is so generous.
“Even just one piece of furniture can turn a life around.”
She also finds walking to be therapeutic. In October, she will be doing a 100 km walk in memory of her daughter Stella for the mental health body Black Dog Institute.
But for now, her focus is on Saturday 3 September, when she hopes to start a legacy with chalk for mental health.
“I hope this is the first of many and we can keep this going every year,” she said.
If this story has raised concerns for you, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. If someone is in immediate danger, call 000. Information and support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention are available through Beyond Blue.
Loading ...
