Every year for the past 22 years, the Kavelman family has participated in BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk. With every step, they think about Adam.

In May 2000, Adam Kavelman died by suicide at just 19 years old. A talented artist and an architecture student who was beloved by all who knew him, Adam had a bright future ahead of him. But he struggled in silence with depression and anxiety.

Following his death, his parents, Bob and Sue, and his sister, Meghan, knew they wanted to find a way to honour his memory and help break the stigma around mental health. They soon learned about Kids Help Phone and hosted a golf tournament to raise funds for the organization. Then, in 2004, they started walking in BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk and never looked back.

Over the years, the family has raised an incredible $160,000 and counting, to help other young people like Adam access support in their most critical moments. The Kavelmans are beyond grateful and thankful to all their family, friends, and colleagues for their ongoing love and support and for making this possible!

“We want kids like Adam to be able to just talk. That’s why we’re such proud supporters of this event and organization,” says Meghan. “Too many young people feel alone in their struggles, but no one should ever have to feel that way.”