Aaron Manson was entering his fifth and final year of a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at TRU but tragically passed away in 2021 due to an accidental overdose. (Image Credit: Troylana Manson)

By Aaron Schulze

Aaron Manson 'Be Brave'

Gathering at TRU aims to raise awareness about addiction, mental health and the toxic drug crisis

Mar 19, 2026 | 8:05 AM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops residents are invited to a gathering dedicated to raising awareness about addiction, mental health and the toxic drug crisis. 

The Aaron Manson “Be Brave” event runs Thursday (March 19) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. from the Panorama Room at the International Building on Thompson Rivers University’s (TRU) Kamloops campus. 

TRU says the event honours the memory of the late Aaron Manson. The 26-year-old was entering his fifth and final year of a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at TRU but tragically passed away in 2021 due to an accidental overdose. 

“Aaron’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, care and collective responsibility in how we respond to mental health, substance use and loss. We come together each year not only to remember Aaron, but to learn, connect and commit to doing better — together,” TRU states. 

Speakers at the event include Manson’s father Bart, Mom’s Stop the harm co-founder Lorna Thomas and Tailgate Toolkit Program coordinator Mika Dumont. 

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“This is an evening for our whole community — students, staff, faculty and community members alike. Whether you have been personally touched by these issues or simply want to show up in solidarity, your presence matters,” the TRU statement added.

More information about the event can be found here.