Brentwood’s Grade 10s : Officially Aware of Substance Use

17 March 2021Jensa NG, Mack ‘23

As a journalist, I find it difficult to write about more serious topics or events that happen at the school, but this time I could not resist diving into the informational event that was Substance Use Awareness Day.

This is a trend that is new to Brentwood in the past decade, and many would agree that it is one day that students will long reflect upon.

On Friday, February 26th Brentwood’s Grade10s filed into the Killy Theater to watch a pre-recorded, engaging speech by Kevin Brooks – in the accompanying photo – which surely tugged on the heartstrings of many. Growing up, Mr Brooks was a ‘full-sender’. He enjoyed his time at the skate park, on the ski hills, and, most of all, he enjoyed his time partying. On a sunny Saturday afternoon in June he and his friends decided to go partying – they hopped from one party to the next, not thinking completely straight. Late that night, as they were heading to the last party, Mr Brooks, along with his friend, were in a devastating car crash. Sadly, his friend did not make it.

Mr Brooks spoke on the topic of impaired driving, as well as his recovery from the accident. He shared the pain and devastation he dealt with after losing his friend. He “wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”

On Saturday morning we – now a little more informed on the impact of impairing substances – made our way back to the theatre to hear from a professional about addictions.

Dr. Carson McPherson works at the Cedars Addiction Centre and helps people grow, and heal, from their addiction. Dr McPherson spoke about his experience as a young athlete who suffered a back injury and slowly developed an addiction to opioids. He revealed his struggles and shared how his own experience led him to where he is today. Mr McPherson helps prepare students for their young adult years by explaining to them how their brain works and how addictions come to be.

After our session with Dr Carson McPherson, we made our way to the various workshops. The first was a Party Safe station, where B-Well members facilitated a discussion around how to be safe if and when you do decide to drink. This was led by Siri W, Justine C, Lily H, Sophia PT, and Jacob H. The Grade 11s spoke about safety and ensured we always know there is someone there for us no matter the time of day.

Next, we heard from two volunteers from Narcotics Anonymous who spoke to us about their experiences with addiction. They counselled us to avoid taking the same path as them, and to do the best we could to ensure that none of our friends did either.

Lastly, we heard from the student panel, where three brave Brentwood students opened up about their loved ones and the effect that alcohol and other substances had on their lives. Many would agree that “It was touching to hear our peers talk so openly about struggles that their loved ones have faced” observed Lucy M, Mack ‘23.

This was certainly not the most joyful Saturday a teen could dream of, but it is an important step that Brentwood decided to take to ensure the health and well-being of its students.

On behalf of the Grade 10s, thank you Ms Murray, and our wonderful B-Well team.

Jensa NG, Mack ‘23