Brian Reeve, a donor, shared his journey in a recent interview. Struggling with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Reeve found relief through treatment at the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre in Toronto. His $10 million donation aims to support the facility that played a pivotal role in his recovery.
The Thompson Centre, established in 2012, is Canada’s sole institution dedicated to OCD research, education, and treatment, serving around 400,000 Canadians affected by the disorder. Peggy Richter, the head of the centre, explained that OCD manifests through intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety.
Reeve, a successful lawyer and investor, managed his OCD for years until it escalated in 2019, impacting his daily life. Following a referral to the Thompson Centre, he underwent a four-month intensive treatment program that led to his remission.
Richter highlighted the centre’s comprehensive care approach, offering tailored treatments ranging from consultations to specialized programs for severe cases. Reeve’s donation will facilitate the centre’s expansion and relocation to a permanent site, enhancing its services and research capabilities.
The funding will also establish a joint OCD chair at Sunnybrook and the University of Toronto, supporting future clinicians and researchers in the field. Reeve emphasized the importance of seeking help for OCD and breaking the stigma associated with the disorder.