On Sept. 7, we dedicated the Margaret Trudeau Butterfly Garden in celebration of Margaret’s impassioned advocacy for mental health and The Royal. Her children and grandchildren were present to honour and support her, and to plant flowers alongside her.
In the early 2000s, after years of suffering the symptoms of mental illness, Margaret Trudeau sought help from The Royal. This led to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and treatment that has enabled her to live life fully again. “The Royal didn’t just give me my life back – it gave me my best life,” she said.
Coming to The Royal was life changing for Margaret, but what she did after has had a ripple effect, changing the way people around the world view mental illness. Margaret publicly shared her personal struggles. In doing so, she became a beacon of hope for those suffering from mental illness and living proof that recovery is possible.
"The Royal didn’t just give me my life back – it gave me my best life."Despite her busy life, Margaret has brought the utmost dedication and generosity of spirit to supporting
The Royal. She has championed our fundraising, supported anti-stigma initiatives, and helped to bring attention to our innovative programs and leading edge research. In 2016, Margaret was named honourary patron of The Royal.
She continues to shine brightly with hope for those suffering from mental illness, offering living proof that recovery is possible. This beautiful garden in her honour will renew itself every year, bringing butterflies and hope to our patients.
Thank you, Margaret, for bringing hope, inspiration, and change to the world of mental health.