Melanie Knapp, local poet, writer, and advocate, was chosen to be this week’s Country 93 Local Hero!

Her nominator, Marilyn Bell, said of her, “Melanie initiated and worked on the coffee house for mental health patients at Owen Sound hospital. Was instrumental with the talent show each year. Has prompted people to donate for blankets for patients and has spoken many times about the ventures and challenges with mental health. A very talented young lady, a huge asset to the area. So proud of her and all the accomplishments.”

Of the work she participates in Melanie had this comment for us, "Although we've made many changes at the hospital the number one concern still is that people get too much medication, the solution is to reduce amounts of medications and offer other therapeutic solutions. The second concern is that there needs to be nurses who will talk and have conversation with patients to help them understand their situations or help them through a tough day. By knowing these concerns the community can talk about ways to come to new places of compassion and understanding. It's also great for people who are patients to know their concerns have been heard."

We at the Owen Sound Hub are also proud of Melanie and her ongoing work in support of mental health in our community. She has written several pieces for us in the past and we look forward to her work continuing in our community.

Conratulations to Melanie Knapp on this award.