The passing of comedy icon Mike MacDonald

Statement
From Mental Health Commission of Canada

OTTAWA, March 19, 2018 /CNW/ - The passing of comedy icon Mike MacDonald is a terrible loss for all Canadians. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and fans. An Ottawa native, Mike was known not only for his comedic prowess, but also for his gentle and generous character. He was very much a friend to the mental health community, and often wove his battle with drug addiction and bipolar disorder into his stand-up sketches.

On March 21, Mike MacDonald was scheduled to be the headliner at the Alterna Savings Crackup comedy show being presented by the Mental Health Commission of Canada. The show, dedicated to the first responder community and a fundraiser for Wounded Warriors Canada, will proceed as scheduled. We hope that Mike's spirit will be laughing along with us as host Mary Walsh, and a team of professional comedians, take the stage for a great cause that was close to his heart.

In February of 2013, Mike was honoured with a well-deserved Canadian Comic Legend Award from his peers at Cracking Up the Capital (now renamed the Alterna Savings Crackup), an Ottawa comedy festival that is raising awareness and money for mental health issues. This dedicated champion to mental health will be greatly missed.

Louise Bradley
President and CEO, Mental Health Commission of Canada

Follow MHCC on Facebook

Follow MHCC on Twitter

Follow MHCC on LinkedIn

SOURCE Mental Health Commission of Canada