Meet our friend BARRY

What began as a simple conversation between strangers has evolved into a legacy of love for Barry Sims.

While volunteering at a charity event, Barry met staff from The Royal and became intrigued by what is commonly referred to as the ‘invisible’ illness. Considering one in five Canadians is affected by mental illness, he realized he had been incredibly lucky no one in his immediate family had ever been challenged by one.

Wanting to learn more, Barry came to visit The Royal.

“As I met patients and staff, I became more inspired,” said Barry. “I was fascinated to learn about the research taking place. It was a revelation to me that science could unlock the mysteries of the mind. My experiences inside The Royal that day were eye opening.”

Shortly after his visit, Barry’s mother passed away. Now the last in the Sims family, he began to reflect on the kind of legacy he wanted to leave.

The more he thought about it, the more Barry felt a bequest to The Royal was the right thing to do.

“The organization is doing incredible work – and I want to support it. Through research, I’m confident The Royal can solve some of the mental health challenges that affect so many – too many – of us. It feels good to know that I am making a difference.”