OTTAWA, Ont. – More than 500 business and community leaders were on hand at Hampton Inn on Wednesday, for the Leaders for Mental Health Breakfast.

The breakfast is aiming for an open honest, frank discussion about mental illness while raising money for mental health care, education and research at The Royal Ottawa Hospital.

Those attending the breakfast shared heart-wrenching stories about the impact mental illness can have — not just on those with the condition, but also their families.

“Three years ago Gillian was diagnosed with dementia,” said Len Wall about his wife. “I’m losing my wife that I knew so well and loved, that my children knew so well. It’s heartbreaking.”

Ottawa Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson was on hand as honourary co-chair for the event.

“My sister has been dealing with Generalized Anxiety Disorder for over 10 years,” Alfredsson told 1310News. “I’ve seen personally how it affects her, her family, and also her extended family.”