Finding hope after the storm

Every CAMH donor’s story is unique.

The Garcia Family's story is one of tremendous loss, resilience and the enduring power of hope. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of immense heartache, there can be a path forward.

In May 2021, Francisco Garcia experienced what many consider the ultimate tragedy in life: the loss of a child. His daughter Bridgett, age 36, died by accidental overdose while living in Toronto. Just over a year later, unthinkable tragedy occurred again, when Francisco’s younger daughter, Ashley, died by suicide, herself only 34.

Losing both my daughters in such a short time was devastating,” says Francisco. 

A gift in memory is a powerful way to honour a loved one. Learn More about In Memory Giving

Like many young people, the girls had goals for lives that sadly turned out to be too short to be realized. Ashley dreamed of becoming a DJ one day, and Francisco fondly remembers her saving her money to buy turntables that she practiced on for hours in the basement of the family home. She aspired to have a career in hospitality and, one week before her passing, had proudly achieved her Certificate in Hotel Operations Management from George Brown College.

Francisco shares a handwritten note that Bridgett wrote in grade 10 titled, “Things I want to do in life” that, among commonly held goals like get married and have kids, recounts her desire of becoming a psychologist to help people with their mental health and dreams of one day visiting developing countries to help disadvantaged children and families.

“Coping with such severe and overwhelming grief requires time, discipline and support from professionals, family and friends. I feel very fortunate and thankful to have this support as it brings me strength and comfort as I continue to grieve and navigate through these sad, incomprehensible and irreparable losses. It keeps me going and getting up every morning with energy, steadfastness and renewed hope.”

For many parents, the loss of two children could render one hopeless. Francisco concedes that moving forward after such tragic losses is challenging and takes a lot of work.

“Grief does not stop or go away in any sense,” says Francisco.

To work through their family’s grief, Francisco established the Ashley and Bridgett Rainbow Fund at CAMH, which has received contributions from all over the world and has raised nearly $75,000, almost three times over their initial $25,000 goal. To continue making an impact in the future, Francisco has designated a gift in his Will to the Rainbow Fund.

“Our family established the Rainbow Fund as a permanent tribute to the memory of our daughters, and while doing so, to raise awareness and support for mental health, addictions, early intervention and suicide prevention,” says Francisco. “It’s our wish that the Rainbow Fund contributes to helping those impacted, by reducing stigma—something very important to Bridgett and Ashley—and offering an opportunity for recovery that leads to a fulfilling life with a brighter future.”

Francisco says the rainbow was chosen with purpose. “Rainbows commonly appear after a storm and, for a brief moment, give the feeling of calm after the turbulent atmosphere that came moments earlier. Rainbows represent the feelings of peace, tranquility and hope. After their turbulent lives, we hope Bridgett and Ashley have peace and tranquility and their Rainbow Fund can help bring this to others.”