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Naked Bungy Jump aims to shed stigma around mental illness

Feb 15, 2018 | 11:15 PM

NANAIMO — Stripping off your clothes in front of a group of strangers in near-freezing temperatures and leaping off a bridge over the Nanaimo River.

While it might not be everyone’s idea of a normal February morning, nearly 200 people have lined up to willingly take the leap every year for the last 11 years.

The 12th annual Naked Bungy Jump for the BC Schizophrenia Society is Feb. 17 and 18 at WildPlay Nanaimo.

Jessica Van’t-Haaff, administrative coordinator for the Victoria branch of the BCSS, will personify bravery at this year’s event.

Van’t-Haaff’s mother Christena lived with bipolar disorder and took her own life early last year. She said stepping out onto the ledge as 2018’s “star jumper” is an important show of support.

“You can face this fear of jumping off a 150-foot bridge and you can shed the stigma by taking off your clothes, being bare and showing the vulnerability behind it.”

Van’t-Haaff said people often live with significant stigma shrouding their struggle with mental illness and the event is about shedding that stigma, along with your clothes.

“I want to encourage people to share their stories…Mental illness should not be in the shadows. Hope and help is available,” she said.

Besides being a symbolic experience and a chance to connect with a support network, the event is also a “major fundraiser” for the non-profit society which serves all of Vancouver Island.

Over the previous 11 years, nearly 1,800 jumpers have raised over $188,000 to help more than 29,000 people. Funds raised support critical programs, including a wellness recovery action plan group and peer support workers, Van’t-Haaff said.

An anonymous donor will match all donations, registration fees and pledges up to $25,000.

Spectators are welcome at the 18-plus event for a $15 donation.

To get full details and find out how to jump or donate, visit the website.

 

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