The TELUS-funded film Buddy Check for Jesse spotlights how a Victoria father’s loss sparked a nationwide mental health movement in youth sports.
A Movement Born from Tragedy
When Victoria physician Dr. Stu Gershman lost his 22-year-old son Jesse to suicide in 2014, he chose to confront the silence surrounding mental health in youth sports. What began as heartfelt conversations with his hockey team has since evolved into a national program reaching more than 18,000 young athletes across Canada.
From Locker Room Talks to National Awareness
Dr. Gershman founded the Buddy Check for Jesse Society in 2018, aiming to normalize mental health discussions in sports settings. Coaches, athletes, and parents are encouraged to engage in open dialogue, breaking down stigma that often surrounds mental illness in athletics.
Spotlight Through Film
This journey is now the focus of a TELUS-funded documentary, Buddy Check for Jesse. The film follows Gershman’s mission to honour his son by transforming grief into a movement. Recently, the documentary won Best Documentary at the Vancouver Independent Film Festival and continues to tour Canadian festivals this fall.
Why Sports Are Key in the Conversation
Sports organizations across the country, including BC Hockey and Volleyball Manitoba, have embraced Buddy Check as part of their programming. Events feature players taping sticks in the program’s signature green and coaches leading “Coaches’ Chats” about wellness. Experts say this is crucial, with research showing that 35% of elite athletes face mental health struggles.
The Impact on Young Athletes
Athletes featured in the film share how the program has changed their perspective. “People my age and even older have told me this program changed their life,” said University of Victoria athlete Carson Strom. By combining prevention strategies with peer support, the initiative offers a model that complements clinical care.
Upcoming Screenings and Community Engagement
Abbotsford residents will soon have the chance to see the film firsthand. Buddy Check for Jesse premieres at the Abbotsford Film Festival on Sept. 4 at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium. The festival runs until Sept. 6, with nightly screenings and filmmaker Q&A sessions.
A Legacy of Hope
What began as one father’s tribute to his son is now a nationwide mental health movement woven into the fabric of Canadian youth sports. As Dr. Gershman’s message spreads, the program continues to remind athletes and communities alike that talking about mental health can save lives.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
