THUNDER BAY – Just over 5 months ago, I announced that I was stepping aside as Minister of Northern Development and Mines to deal with depression.
This time has given me the opportunity to work more closely with my health team to better understand the struggle I’ve been experiencing and how best to heal and recover.
I’m pleased to say that, while I have been away, I have made great progress in understanding this illness and how to cope with and treat it. But, like many with depression, I am continuing the hard work it takes to feel better. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not there yet.
But I’m standing in front of you here today because I feel that I now have the strength to begin transitioning back to the work that I love to do, for my community, for the North and for Ontario.
I can’t begin to explain how much the support of my family, friends, constituents and colleagues has meant to me over the past 5 months. You are part of the reason I now have the strength to get back to work.
Thank you for your time, patience and understanding – I wouldn’t be here without you.
Michael Gravelle MPP
