Thunder Bay is joining communities across Canada again this year for Flora’s Walk, this Saturday, May 23. Flora’s Walk is the country’s largest perinatal mental health awareness event. Held annually during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, the walk shines a spotlight on the importance of perinatal mental health and the need for accessible, equitable care for all families. Perinatal mental health refers to mental health during pregnancy and throughout the first year postpartum. Mental health challenges during this period are among the most common complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth.
Flora was a Canadian mother who tragically lost her life to undetected, undiagnosed, and untreated postpartum psychosis. Flora’s story continues to inspire communities across Canada to advocate for improved mental health supports during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
The Thunder Bay Perinatal Coalition, led by TBDHU, is encouraging community members to participate in Flora’s Walk this year.
Flora’s Walk
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Location: Waverley Park, Thunder Bay (between Law School and Magnus Theatre)
Opening Remarks: 1:15 p.m. (Elder Elizabeth Moore, MPP Lise Vaugeois)
Walk Start: 2:15 p.m.
“All My Relations” Drum Group will perform opening and closing songs
Shorter and extended walking routes will be available, allowing participants to choose the route they prefer. Mental health professionals from St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Harmony Health, Autumnwood Counselling, and NWO Psychology will be on site to provide immediate support to participants who may require assistance during the event. Community partners and local service providers will also be present at the event to share information about available supports and services.
In Canada, between 10 and 20 percent of pregnant individuals, new mothers, and non-bearing parents report experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Rates are much higher locally, with 52.9% of women reporting experiencing a maternal mental health concern during pregnancy in 2023, compared to 22.3% across Ontario.
Mental illness during the perinatal period, if left untreated, can also affect birth outcomes and child development. Despite effective treatments for perinatal mental health, many cases go unaddressed in new and expectant parents. Stigma and unrealistic expectations often prevent individuals from seeking help, leaving many to struggle in silence while feeling they should be coping better. Flora’s Walk aims to spark conversations about these challenges while creating a supportive and inclusive environment for families and caregivers.
“Perinatal mental health impacts the well-being of parents, infants, families, and communities,” says Denise Sozio, public health nurse at TBDHU and Chair of the Thunder Bay Perinatal Coalition. “Events like Flora’s Walk help reduce stigma, connect families with resources, and remind parents that they are not alone.”
For anyone or their loved on who is experiencing or suspects perinatal mental health challenges, they are not alone. Treatment options and supports are available. Visit TBDHU’s Maternal Mental Health page.
To read more about Flora’s story and walk visit: lifewithababy.com/FlorasWalk.
Visit TBDHU’s webpage for more information on the Thunder Bay Perinatal Coalition.