Obituary For Kristin Legault Donkers

On Friday March 11th, 2022, Kristin Legault Donkers in her 25th year, chose to end her life after a courageous and publicly hard-fought battle with her Mental Illness.

To quote Kristin’s own words, she was exhausted from not getting sustained relief. It was so heart wrenching to know that Kristin didn’t believe anything or anyone would be able to help her. After years of battling her own demons along with the bureaucracy of our Mental Health Care System – the system that she so passionately fought for – failed her.

Kristin will be deeply missed by her Father, Ed Donkers (Shedden), Grandparents, Leo and Joanne Donkers (St. Thomas), her Brothers, Krystian and Krystopher Donkers (Shedden) and her Best Friend, Charlie, her Cat. She now rests in the loving arms of her Mother, Coreen Legault and Grandpapa, Carman Legault.

Kristin was grateful for all the love and compassion from her Friends, most especially to Antonette for always being there to listen and support her during the darkest of times – she believed in Kristin when she couldn’t believe in herself. Kate, was one of the few people throughout her life who truly understood how unbearable her depression was – she knew how to empathize with her daily struggles.

Kristin is survived by her Grandmamma Claudette Legault (Cornwall), Uncles Craig Legault and Robert Donkers (Stephanie), Aunts Carolyn Legault (Ralph), Debbie Legault, and Mary Donkers, cousins Vanessa, Victoria, Alexander, Owen, Kian, Taylor and Lauren. She will also be missed by her Friends, her Schoolmates, her Colleagues, and by those of us who looked to her for inspiration with our own battles with Mental Illness.

Kristin was a first year Master of Social Work Student and Graduate Assistant at the University of Windsor. She recently earned her Undergraduate Degree in Psychology and Disability Studies from King’s University College at Western University. Her future plan was to pursue Law School Studies for an eventual Legal Career in Public Policy, Mental Health and Disability Rights Law and Advocacy.

Kristin had a fervent passion for Mental Health Advocacy and Creating Systemic Change. As an Advocate, an Author, a Crisis Responder, a Lecturer and a Lobbyist, we are incredibly proud of her accomplishments:

• Recipient of the Sharon Johnston Champion of Mental Health for Youth Award through the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) in 2018 for Mental Health Advocacy work in her community. #BellLetsTalk

• Recipient of the London-Middlesex Mental Health Champion Award through St. Joseph's Health Care and CMHA Middlesex in 2018 for her commitment to Mental Health Advocacy in the London Community.

• Co-Developed a comprehensive Educational Package designed to facilitate discussions around Mental Health for elementary school-aged students.

• Co-Founded Reading to Flourish, a Mental Health-Related Reading Initiative for young children and their families during the COVID pandemic. https://london.ctvnews.ca/western-students-create-mental-health-website-for-youth-and-parents-1.4953656

• Received grants to fund 100 Mental Health "Coping Toolkits" for CMHA Middlesex Clients experiencing a Mental Health/Addictions Crisis. https://london.ctvnews.ca/london-woman-creates-mental-health-coping-kits-1.5088222

• Authored a series of illustrated children's books on mental health. https://www.childrensmentalhealthseries.com/

• Co-Chair of the London Police Services Board of Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Panel 2021

Forever in our Hearts, Kristin’s Legacy as a Mental Health Advocate will live on as a Dark and Shining example of much needed change in our Mental Health Care System. She tirelessly Lobbied for Legislative Parity between Mental and Physical Health.

While Kristin’s words 'Is Anyone Ever Going To Help Me?' echo in our ears, sadly it seems to be unheard for years from our Mental Health Care and Health Care System. Therefore, we ask that in lieu of flowers please donate to the Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. Donate to the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal - UHCA MWF Don (redcross.ca) https://www.redcross.ca/donate/appeal/donate-to-the-ukraine-humanitarian-crisis-appeal#9cfdcd2b-85a7-4899-ada2-f8bdae8d0939

‘All along you’ve known how important it was to me to make a difference in this world, I would genuinely hope that I’ve done that; that I’ve done my part to make the world a better place. ~ Kristin

Grandma, Joanne Donkers knew how important it was for Kristin to make the world a better place for others and would at times forget about herself. It was her Grandma who stood by her, was her biggest champion, her guardian angel, never wavering in her belief in all that Kristin could be. Joanne and Leo’s love for Kristin remains unconditional and absolute during this heartbreaking time. Kristin will always be our Baby Girl.

You may now truly REST IN PEACE Kristin…

"Suicide is not selfish. Suicide is, normally, death caused by the illness of depression. It is the final symptom. A final collapse under unbearable weight. Suicide is a tragedy. If you have never been close to that edge try not to judge what you can't understand."

A Celebration Of Life for Kristin will be held at a later date.

Williams Funeral Home, 45 Elgin St., St. Thomas entrusted with arrangements.

Guest Book

Joanne, Leo, Ed and family, we are feeling so many emotions once we learned of Kristin's life lived and lost. We are very proud of her for what she was able to accomplish in the name of mental health in her short life. She furthered her education and used her gifts to help others. Wow! We are saddened that we were not able to support her more, especially through her most difficult times. We are feeing a sense of loss that her sparkly and sensitive spirit is no longer here to share the light. We pray that what she has started will carry on and that her life will continue to make a difference in the lives of others. We know that she is now experiencing unspeakable joy in the presence of our Lord, and we take comfort in that. Love lives forever. with deepest sympathy, Al and Jane Ann House

- Al & Jane Ann House

I fondly remember the first time I met Kristin in my freshman year at Western University. We both studied at Brescia College and we both double majored in Disability Studies at King's. Over the years we shared many wonderful classes together and, when we would run into each other on campus, she was always open for a friendly word of encouragement or to share a laugh. Kristin was a kind gentle soul, deep thinker with with so much perspective to offer and so much love to give. She was always smiling and she made the people around her feel accepted and seen. She will be remembered as a warrior and a devoted advocate for change in the mental healthcare system. We stayed in touch throughout the years, each supporting the others successes, and I am profoundly appreciative of the support and the time I had with this amazing person. She inspires us to open our eyes and hearts to challenges and to work harder to make things better. Kristin made a difference in so many lives. She has left a lasting impact on mine. My deepest condolences to her family, her grandparents and to her beloved Charlie. There is a saying that, What is loved is never lost. And only pain and suffering fade away. Rest easy and in peace, Kristin. Esmé Panarello

- Esmé Panarello

Our condolences on the passing of your granddaughter. You loved her very much and supported and helped her as much as possible. She was remarkable and had achieved so much. Sincerely, Donna and Bill Hanson

- Donna Hanson

To Kristin's Family – Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved Kristin. Though I didn't know her, I am truly sorry. Obviously she was a loving, compassionate person who continually reached out to others in so many ways. My caring thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Norma Clare London

- Norma Clare

Kristin was in one of my courses at King's when she first started and from early on, it was clear that she was a unique force - she spoke up for what she wanted or didn't agree with in the class with earnest passion. She was genuine and serious about her studies in a way that made her stand out from the chaos of campus life and the rush of classes. It seemed clear that she was not studying for credits - she was studying to heal - herself and others. I hope that she found some measure of kindred and compassionate though in our courses, but this touching obituary reminds me that we rarely know what burdens the souls of our students as they sit in class. Requiescat in Pace Kristin.

- Pamela Cushing

I did not know Kristin in person but I was grateful to message with her a few times in a mental health Facebook group we were both members of. After reading about all of the things she accomplished in her 25 years on earth, I am warmed by the fact that she spent time reaching out to so many who needed support; while facing her own demons. I, too have faced suicidal thoughts and ideation and my own fair share of attempts. The battle we face through the eyes of mental illness are no ones fault but change IS NEEDED. I have lost too many people in my life to suicide through one form or another. And each loss is more devastating than the next I am praying for Kristen and her loved ones tonight. I am very sorry for your loss. She fought so that others could fight longer without the added pain and stress of the mental health care system failing them. I am so sorry that it failed her. <3 ((I tried to add a purple candle - my favorite color - but couldn't. I will light one physically in her honor))

- Blake

Although I don't know Kristin personally, hearing her story has broken my heart. I am truly sorry Kristin & your loved ones, that you were all let down. I am a peer in a social work program at the same university and I too experience bipolar disorder and bpd. I am absolutely amazed with and so truly thankful for the work Kristin has done to advocate for people like us. There is not many people around me doing this work, being open and honest about living their lives while coping with these extremely stigmatized experiences, and also infiltrating these broken systems from the inside. It's scary having these challenges, even scarier to out yourself about them, and even more difficult than that when you are studying to work within the institution that fails you every day. I have never met Kristin but I can tell you that she has saved many lives many times, by disclosing that she experiences mental health challenges and making others feel seen, and even more by educating, actually performing crisis work in her community, and fighting for changes that she knows better than anyone need to be made. Kristin's legacy will live on every day through the lives she has touched & saved, and in the advocation and voice she has given to people like us. I could go on forever about what I have read about Kristin's successes and incredibly important work. I thank her with my whole heart. May she rest in peace.

- ERW

To Kristin's Family, ❤️You are not alone. Sincere condolences. Love from Jennie (Ferguson) Rice xo

- Jennie Rice

Our deep condolences to Joanne, Leo, Ed and family. In memory of Kristin, we have supported the Ukraine appeal. Thank you for this courageous and heartfelt obituary.

- Terry and Nancy Carroll

I am very saddened to learn of this news today. I met Kristin at Victoria Hospital and we quickly became friends. She shared her struggles with me. Her grandparents were her rock and I know she loved them deeply. To them and the rest of the family, I am so sorry. Kristin had so much promise and was doing amazing things. I know all too well how much pain can become unbearable though. Kristin you will be missed. I hope you are at peace my friend. Rebecca

- Rebecca

RIP Kristin xoxo your obituary was shared by a friend, and although we have never met, I am in awe of the amount of work you put into educating people of all ages about mental health, and am so proud of you for the impact that you have had on others. I am so sorry that your own personal battle became too much to bear, and I hope that your legacy and knowing that you influenced people of all ages will help you rest easy. As someone who has dealt with mental health issues, and knowing too many people who struggle as well, my heart and love and respect go to you.

- Jasmin

I met kristin in parkwood and knew how desparately she wanted help and how she just wanted someone to listen and take her serious...kristin and i became friends and exchanged phone numbers and supported eachother with the issues we were going through over the last 5 or so years..i know she was trying to get into homewood but it never panned out...she had such an amazing personality and an absolutely beautiful smile...i am so sorry to the family and i am also sorry that she couldnt get the help she so desparately wanted need and deserved...my thoughts and prayers are with her family and i have no doubt she is now at peace with God in heaven...rest in peace kristin...i love you girl

- Kersten Foehner

Although I haver met Kristin am inspired by her and her works. I've experienced similar soul crushing, painful, black episodes my whole life, however, I have not had the strength nor ability to accomplish a millionth of what she has done. She is my hero- I wish I had the strength to pick up her torch and move forward. Unlike Kristin, I'm one of the millions who remain in the dark silence waiting for an angel like Kristen. I do not posses her tenacity, courage or the compassion to reach out to others. I hope Kristin's family can take some comfort in the fact that Kristin has not only had a profound impact on her family and friends, she has touched many who she has never even met. I believe her legacy will continue. The world has lost one of its most valuable treasures. It only seems fitting that donations in the memory of Kristin will be given to the Ukrainian Crisis Appeal- it seems that Kristin is continuing to help others.

- Barry

Joanne, Leo and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Kristin was a strong advocate and a beautiful soul who will be missed. I had the pleasure of being friends with Kristin fairly closely for several years in elementary school. We touched base with each other from time to time in high school and post secondary. Although I wish it was more. She will be truly missed.

- Nicole Vanderveen

I was scrolling my Facebook feed 5-10 minutes before (believe or not) a therapy appointment for my mental health. I scrolled across a post from an old highschool peer just shared. The word Obituary and a familar face underneath was all I saw. My heart sank. Kristin. I was not close to Kristin. In fact I probably only talked to her a few times. We met at the Adult mental health ward at Victoria Hospital while I was staying there for a few weeks to focus on my mental health and getting to a better state of mind. I usually would see her in the lounge where 4-6 of us would play cards or dice. During the few days Kristin was there I instantly saw a kind and loving soul. I remember relating to her and could see how much she was hurting. I could see how much of an empath Kristin was. She told me about the books she wrote on the topic of mental health directed to kids and how she was at Western in hopes to get into the mental health field so she could help people. She knew how painful, devastating and heartbreaking depression can be and what it can do do a person. She did not want anyone to go through that alone and wanted to help in any way she can to help prevent and reduce the pain someone goes through when there struggling with mental health issues. Kristin was kind and warm to everyone she met except to the person that should of mattered the most: Herself .This is where I can relate. You might be wondering why someone who hardly knew her is sharing her thoughts and sympathy on a page more directed towards for her loving family and friends but I wanted to show how much of an impact she had on people she wouldn't even think she left a mark on. I hardly knew her but I know she did leave such a positive everlasting impression in the mental health field and she accomplished so many things she wanted to do to help people. I'm so sorry Kristin that you felt like the last resort was to end things. I truly hope you are at peace but also that you can see now that you are so loved and did great things. My thoughts and prayers are with Kristin's family and friends. "At the end of life, what really matters is not what we bought, but what we built; not what we got, but what we shared; not our competence, but our character; and not our success, but our significance. Live a life that matters. Live a life of love." - Author Unknown

- Maegan F

Joanne,Leo and Families. So, so sorry for your loss. You all have been a Pillar of strength for Kristin. She is through with all her struggles and now at peace. Thinking of you all through these difficult times.

- Paddy & John Michielse -Dorchester

My heart is reaching out to everyone at this sad time. Big hugs and support to the Legault Donkers Family as well as extended family and friends. She will never be forgotten and may she Rest In Peace. She fought so hard and made a lot of movement on this issue of mental health! Nina Benson

- Nina Benson

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Connie and Currie Silcox

- Connie and Currie Silcox

I knew Kristin through school. Her passion for the mental health community was inspiring and I am grateful for the experience of knowing her. Wishing love, comfort and support to the family during this tough time. To Kristin, I am sorry that the system you fought so hard for, let you down

- Emily Arscott

I had the honour and privilege of teaching Kristin in high school. She was a talented and gifted student who took pride in her work and also looked for ways to learn and improve. I followed her post-secondary journey from afar and was so impressed to see how she advocated for youth mental health. I am so sorry the system she sought to change let her down, but I know that others will keep up the fight in her memory. -Danika Tipping

- Danika Tipping

I didn't know Kristin personally but was very much aware of her impact in our community. I was a fan of her advocacy and activism. My sincere condolences to her family and friends. May she Rest In Peace.

- Trevor Johnson

I worked with Kristin in my capacity as an academic counsellor. I think of her as an excellent student, community advocate, and kind person. I was also aware of her very real struggles. My sincere condolences. May you rest in peace, Kristin.

- Miriam Love

To Kristin's family, Please accept most heartfelt sympathies for your loss...thoughts are with you and the family during this difficult time. I had the pleasure to meet Kristin and grandparents, when Kristin came to CMHA at 534 Queens Ave to receive her Champion of Mental Health Awards. It was a lovely time, to visit, meet everyone in person, and celebrate Kristin's accomplishments. Hold those wonderful times close for comfort. Anita, Executive Support CMHA

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You were a good egg. I'm so sorry that you were in pain for so long, I hope you are truly in comfort where you are now ❤️

- Phebe

I don't know Kristin - a friend shared her story on Facebook. However, as someone who also struggles with mental health, I was so moved by her story, and also amazed by everything she achieved - her family, friends and loved ones should be very proud of her and the light that she radiated onto this world. Fly high beautiful angel! Love and prayers from England, UK.

- Alice Barker

I am deeply saddened to learn of this heartbreaking loss. Kristin was a beautiful person. Her willingness to share her story and to use it as a rallying call for change was so inspiring. I was so impressed with her tireless and creative work to make the world better, and her deep empathy and understanding of children and what they often have to cope with. Kristin, forgive us for the times when we did not accompany you to the extent we could have. To Kristin's grandparents and her entire extended family--heartfelt condolences for your loss. May she rest in peace.

- Madeline Burghardt, Disability Studies, King's College

I am so sorry for your loss. I taught Sociology at Kings and Kristin was a guest speaker in my Sociology of Family class on mental illness. She was delightful and had a significant impact on my students. She gave me a set of her books for my granddaughter. I remember her fondly! May she rest in peace.

- Gale Cassidy

Kristin I had the honour of meeting you through your grandparents. I followed your journey from postings on facebook. Your ongoing advocacy with mental health has been inspiring to many. My most precious memory is the honour of writing a preface in your publish books and being part of the book launch. Your legacy witll go on lovely lady. Peace and love to your family Moira Nichols

- Moira Nichols

My heart is heavy and my prayers are with your family at this time. I first met Kristin in 2009 at St. Raphael's Elementary School where I worked as an Educational Assistant. We got to know each other quite well, and she was such a thoughtful, well-spoken, kind, young lady. She was humorous and wise beyond her years. I have enjoyed following Kristin and all her accomplishments through the years on social media. Last week, I came across a thank-you note she had written to me during a difficult time. She has touched more lives than you will ever know! My condolences to you all. May she rest in peace

- Lee Ann Norman

Kristin was brave, brave, brave. My deepest condolences to the entire family. She made the world a better place

- Steve Wookey

Her struggles were real, and she faced them with courage. My sincere condolences to her family and friends. The world has lost a beautiful soul.

- A.C.

There simply aren't enough words to describe what a remarkable footprint Kristin has left on this earth. She was so passionate about mental health and how she would change the world. Kristin made huge impact on so many in the city of Woodstock, myself included. May she rest in heavenly peace. My sincere condolences to Kristin's family, friends, classmates, and colleagues.

- Gail Bradfield-Evraire

I did not know this young lady but I was so touched by her story and her.accomplishments, and so saddened for her pain. My sincere condolences condolences to all her family and friends and know that she is at peace now.

- Chris Lessard

I have very found memories of Kristin helping out at our school library. She had great love for books and writing. She has written a series of books for children to better understand depression and how to problem solve. Our students had great compassion for the characters in her books. Other libraries also welcomed her books as there was great need for these books to help kids have a better understanding of this complicated illness. Kristin was willing to share and help others with her experience. I will miss her wonderful smile and the willingness to help others with their journey. Rest In Peace Dear Kristin. May God embrace you and welcome you and give you peace. Mrs. Patterson

- Eva Patterson

Kristin was one of my grade 7&8 students. She was a gifted young lady who was passionate about helping others. She was very special young lady, and the world has lost a shining light. My heart breaks for her family. I am so sorry for your loss. With Sincere Sympathy.

- Anne Gray-Hiddink

Dear Joanne, Leo and family, I am so very sorry for your loss of your shining light, your Kristin. Her beautiful smile, her kindness, her empathy, her advocacy and her incredible resilience, despite her own suffering, has made the world a better place in her short years on this earth. I pray that she is at peace and I am so saddened that she was not able despite her valiant efforts to find that peace here on earth. I will always remember her beautiful smile, brilliance and kind heart. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Rest In Peace Dearest Kristin. ❤️

- Jane Everitt-Walker

I am so very sorry. Kristin impacted so many with stories of both struggle and resilience at King's and beyond. My prayers and thoughts to her family and friends.

- Joe Henry

Kristin will be dearly missed. She was a courageous woman who tried her very best. I loved our many conversations about life and animals as we shared this passion and love. Praying she is at peace. Heartfelt sympathy to the family. She will remain in our hearts forever.

- Laura callaghan

Kristin will be dearly missed. She was a courageous woman who tried her very best. I loved our many conversations about life and animals as we shared this passion and love. Praying she is at peace. Heartfelt sympathy to the family. She will remain in our hearts forever.

- Laura callaghan

WOW! What a beautiful tribute to Kristin! I did not know this young lady however, I attended high school with Ed. I to have suffered with mental health issues most of my life and attempted to take my own life twice. I GET IT! So many people don't understand mental health and it's people like Kristin who was so well educated and obviously an outstanding advocate regarding mental health issues who was very devoted to helping others. Kristin rest easy young lady and without even knowing you in my books YOU WILL ALWAYS BE A CHAMPION! God Bless your soul and continue to watch over your family members and friends! Sincerely, Bob Vigars 🙏🏼💕 Whoever wrote Kristin's obituary it was beautifully written and spoke to my heart/soul. God Bless You! 🙏🏼

- Bob Vigars