Former broadcaster shares story of survival on World Suicide Prevention Day

Former broadcaster shares story of survival on World Suicide Prevention Day

Bill Pringle has lost friends and co-workers, and almost his own life. Now he helps shape the 988 crisis line

Bill Pringle, 68, has lived with mental illness since the 1970s.

Since he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he has been hospitalized more times than he can count, he says.

"Thankfully, I have good friends, and Saskatoon has great paramedics."

Pringle has lost 14 friends and coworkers to suicide, and has himself survived eight suicide attempts.

He's a former broadcaster for CKO Canada All News Radio in Calgary and CKEK in Cranbrook B.C., where "I am proud to say I became management at age 19," he says.

He credits Scrappy, his four-legged buddy, with helping him keep going in day-to-day life.

"One of the biggest factors in me being able to cope is my dog. He's with me all the time. I'd be lost without him."

Pringle said he wants to share his story to mark World Suicide Prevention Day in case it reaches someone who might need help or hope.

Talking about it publicly has been a big part of his journey, he said.

"I never had any fear of talking. I'm a former broadcaster, so talking has been my life."

Having a good support system — including a family doctor, mental health nurses, and home care workers who check in twice a day — has been very helpful, and so has calling the 988 suicide crisis helpline, he said.

The helpline launched across Canada in 2023. People can call or text 988 at any time.

Pringle is now part of a lived-experience group that works with 988 staff. The group reviews material to make sure it isn't triggering and that the wording is right.

"It's been an amazing experience," he said. "I learned a lot, and hopefully I can pass on some of my knowledge too."

He encourages anyone who is struggling to reach out to someone: call 988, a friend or a family member. The most helpful people are those who will simply listen without offering advice, he said.

In Regina, people with lived experience will share their stories Thursday evening at Caring Hearts' fourth annual World Suicide Prevention Day gathering. Speakers will include people who have lost loved ones to suicide and people who have survived their own attempts.

"Our focus isn't just on those who have lost loved ones to suicide," said Keely Wight-Young, executive director of the grief and loss organization. "It's also a focus on hearing the voices and providing support to those who have survived."

The free event starts at 6 p.m. CST at Central Park, at 15th Avenue and Scarth Street. Trained counsellors will be on site.

"Many people who are struggling don't seek support because of stigma or fear of judgment. I think one of the strongest protective factors against suicide is meaningful human connection," Wight-Young said.

"The beauty in our work is we have the gift of walking with people as they find hope once again. Everybody's grief experience is unique and every loss is unique."

Saskatchewan's suicide rate is higher than the national average, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.

On Thursday, the province announced 44 grants through its Suicide Prevention Grant Program, now in its second year. The grants total more than $400,000, with each group receiving up to $10,000.

"Suicide is a serious issue that affects many families and communities across Saskatchewan," Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said in a news release.

Recipients include community organizations, Indigenous communities, school divisions and municipalities. Afro Tribes Festival Incorporated will use its funding for its Stay Alive campaign.

The province says it's spending a record $674 million on mental health and addictions this year, including $2.3 million for suicide prevention.

If you or someone you know is struggling, here’s where to look for help:

Aishwarya Dudha is a reporter for CBC Saskatchewan based in Saskatoon. She specializes in immigration, justice and cultural issues and elevating voices of vulnerable people. She has previously worked for CBC News Network and Global News. You can email her at aishwarya.dudha@cbc.ca