William's Story

Tragically, William Deane lost his battle with bipolar disorder in February of 2015.

For months, William had grappled silently and courageously with his mental health. In early 2015, he received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. With this, William sought help from the University of Toronto's psychiatry department. Always open and public about his challenges, William tweeted his concerns about why discussions on mental health were limited to specific campaigns—while emphasizing the need for daily conversations about mental wellness. Had William known about resources of peer support during his struggles with medications and finding psychiatric care, it might have made a life-changing difference.

Today, William's family champions the beneficial impact of peer support for all.

William’s Memory and Hope + Me

In the aftermath of William's passing, the Deane family sought to channel their grief into meaningful action. They aligned with Hope + Me, a mental health charity committed to direct support and activism, embodying William's passion for bringing people together. The organization's youth programs align perfectly with the Deane family's demand for support crucial to those navigating mental health challenges.

Why Sponsor William's Run for Hope?

Your sponsorship of this event is an opportunity to make a profoundly beneficial impact on the lives of youth battling mood disorders — all while aligning your brand with a cause that embodies hope, resilience, and community!