May 05, 2026

Flora’s Story: Why Awareness in Perinatal Mental Health Matters

Some conversations stay with you long after they end.

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mimi to talk about her sister, Flora. This wasn’t just a conversation about loss—it was about who Flora was, the life she lived, and the impact she had on the people around her.

Through Mimi’s eyes, we got to know Flora in a way that so many people haven’t had the chance to.

She shared the kind of person Flora was—how deeply she cared for others, the joy she brought into every room, and the love she had for her family. She spoke about how excited Flora was to become a mother, and the life she was stepping into.

It was a powerful reminder that Flora was so much more than what happened to her.

She was someone who was deeply loved.
And someone who loved deeply in return.


Understanding the Reality of Perinatal Mental Health

In the same conversation, Mimi also shared more about Flora’s postpartum experience.

Her journey with postpartum psychosis.
The challenges she faced.
And the gaps in care and support that existed during that time.

These are not easy conversations to have - but they are necessary.

Because the reality is, too many mothers are navigating this period of their lives without the support they need. Too many are left trying to make sense of what they’re feeling, without access to timely care, clear pathways, or a system that truly supports them.

Awareness is not just about understanding a condition.

It’s about recognizing the signs earlier.
It’s about knowing where to turn.
It’s about removing stigma so mothers feel safe to speak up.

And ultimately - it’s about saving lives.


Why These Conversations Matter

When Mimi shares her sister’s story, she is doing something incredibly powerful.

She is helping us see the full picture.
She is helping us understand what perinatal mental health can look like.
And she is helping ensure that Flora is remembered for who she was - not just how she was lost.

This is the impact of awareness.

It creates space for conversations that might not otherwise happen.
It helps families feel less alone.
And it pushes us, as a community and as a healthcare system, to do better.


From Awareness to Action

Flora’s Walk was created in honour of Flora - a Canadian mother who tragically lost her life in 2022 to undiagnosed and untreated postpartum psychosis, just two months after giving birth to her daughter.

What began as a small, local initiative has grown into Canada’s largest perinatal mental health fundraiser, now taking place in over 50 cities across the country.

But beyond the numbers, this walk represents something much bigger.

It represents community.
It represents connection.

And it represents a collective commitment to making sure mothers are seen, heard, and supported.


Join Us

If this conversation moved you, we invite you to take part.

Flora’s Walk in Barrie will take place on:

Saturday, May 9, 2026
11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Meridian Place

Everyone is welcome.

Whether you walk, donate, or simply share this message—you are part of creating change.


Watch the Full Conversation

We are so grateful to Mimi for sharing her sister’s story with such openness and strength.

You can watch the full conversation below:

PART 1
PART 2