CASE STUDY: Day One Society – A Morning of Courage, Compassion and Community

May 26, 2025, was more than just a date on the calendar; it was a milestone moment for Kamloops and the individuals who filled the ballroom of the Delta Hotel by Marriott Kamloops. Hosted by Day One Society, “A Journey of Hope and Healing with the Sydors” brought over 150 guests together for a sold-out breakfast event rooted in truth, vulnerability, and the power of recovery.

The morning featured retired NHL pro and two-time Stanley Cup champion Darryl Sydor and his wife, Shar, as they bravely shared their family’s personal story with addiction, healing, and resilience. From Darryl’s public battle with alcohol addiction to the strength it took to rebuild his life and relationships, the couple offered a raw and inspiring message: recovery is possible, and no one has to face it alone.

Photo: L>R: Darryl Sydor, Shar and Danalee Baker; Credits: Blue Sky Consulting.

Photo: Siân Lewis; Credits: Blue Sky Consulting

Challenges

Addiction is still surrounded by stigma and misunderstanding, often moralized rather than seen as the complex health issue it is. For Day One Society, a key challenge was helping the public move beyond outdated perceptions and into a place of understanding, support, and compassion.

Through the Sydors’ story, the event aimed to:

·         Reduce stigma around addiction and mental health.

·         Encourage people to seek support and have open conversations

·         Highlight how addiction affects not only individuals but entire families and communities.

·         Raise funds to support Day One Society’s work in the Kamloops region.

Solutions

Day One Society curated a heartfelt, community-centred event experience focused on authentic storytelling. Our team at Amplify Consulting Inc. created a comprehensive and targeted communications strategy to help the Society achieve its objectives. With powerful personal insights, Darryl and Shar offered guests a glimpse into their lowest moments and the strength it took to climb back up. This gathering wasn’t a scripted keynote; it was a shared moment of humanity that touched every person in the room.

Guests were given the opportunity to:

·         Hear real-life experiences of addiction and recovery.

·         Learn how to better support loved ones facing substance use.

·         Connect with local resources through Day One Society.

·         Contribute to an important cause: the Out of the Ashes Bursary, which helps individuals in recovery pursue education and personal growth.

Results and Reflections

The response to the event was overwhelming. As Siân Lewis, Executive Director of Day One Society, reflected:

“There was a real sense of connection to the presenters and to the topic of addiction. The audience was deeply invested in what was being shared, and there was a true sense of community in the room.”

That sense of community extended well beyond the morning itself. Guests lingered long after the final remarks, many approaching Day One staff with questions, expressions of gratitude, and requests for support. Some shared their own stories. Others asked how they could help. Everyone left with something - hope, insight, or a deeper understanding.

“Audience members thanked the Sydor family for their honesty. Some sought information for loved ones. Others committed to helping reduce stigma in their own way,” said Lewis.

The event also served as a reminder that healing isn’t a linear process. The Sydors didn’t sugarcoat the difficulties. They shared the relapses, the doubts, and the daily work recovery takes. And yet, their story radiated resilience, love, and courage.

Kudos from Day One Society

“We at Day One Society are honoured to be the benefactors of this event, but even more proud of Darryl, Shar, and their family’s courage to share their story in a very public way,” said Lewis. “It’s through stories like this that change happens. Thank you to the Amplify Consulting team for their support and communications work that helped us not only promote our event but create a ripple effect for change in our communities.”

Lasting Impact

Proceeds from the event supported Day One Society’s Out of the Ashes Bursary, helping individuals in recovery take the next step in rebuilding their lives. But beyond the funds raised, the emotional resonance and ripple effects of the event continue.

Photo credits: Blue Sky Consulting

“Addiction is still very misunderstood and often moralized. I hope people walked away with more understanding and compassion,” Lewis added. “If more people recognize addiction as a complex disease rather than a personal failure, we can build a more supportive and healing community.”

Day One Society extends its deepest thanks to the Sydor family for their bravery and to every attendee who showed up with an open heart. Through events like these, awareness grows, stigma shrinks, and hope finds its way forward. Our team at Amplify Consulting was proud to be a gold sponsor and to help support the communications strategy and implementation!