Brian Reeve, a 69-year-old lawyer and private equity investor, reached a tipping point seven years ago due to the overwhelming impact of his obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) rituals. After struggling to find effective treatment, he found success in the OCD program at the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto in 2019.
Having achieved remission through the program, Reeve described it as transformative and donated $10 million to the facility. The Thompson Centre, established in 2012 as the first and only Canadian facility dedicated to OCD research, education, and treatment, estimates that approximately 400,000 Canadians live with OCD.
Peggy Richter, the head of the Thompson Centre and a University of Toronto psychiatry professor, explained that OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions) aimed at alleviating anxiety. The disorder can manifest in various forms beyond common stereotypes, ranging from repetitive counting to distressing thoughts.
Reeve was diagnosed with OCD in the 1990s when treatment options were limited. Despite managing his condition well for years, the rituals began to consume more of his time, affecting his daily life and relationships. Referring to his struggles with repetitive tasks, Reeve emphasized the disabling nature of OCD behaviors.
Reeve underwent a four-month intensive OCD treatment program at the Thompson Centre, leading to his remission. Richter highlighted the unique care spectrum offered at the Centre, including consultation, tailored treatment options, peer support, and an aftercare program for alumni.
Reeve’s donation will facilitate the Centre’s expansion and relocation to a permanent site at Sunnybrook’s Bayview campus, enhancing amenities and collaboration with the hospital’s brain sciences program. The funding will also support the establishment of a joint OCD chair at Sunnybrook and the University of Toronto, along with fellowships for Canadian clinicians and researchers in OCD treatment and research.
Reeve’s ultimate goal is to raise awareness about effective OCD treatment and provide resources to individuals facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of seeking help without shame or embarrassment.