‘Two half-wounded people make a better whole’ : a couple’s journey of faith and advocacy for mental health

In the world of mental health advocacy, the Mardon marriage stands out as a remarkable example. Austin Mardon, a celebrated scientist and advocate, and his wife Catherine, a lawyer and social justice champion, have shared their lives in a way that highlights the power of two "half-wounded" individuals coming together to form a "whole."

Despite their struggles with mental health and disability, the Mardons have dedicated their lives to advocating for others facing similar challenges. Austin, who suffered severe frostbite during a NASA-funded research expedition to Antarctica, became a public figure and tireless advocate for those living with mental illness. Catherine, who survived a brutal stabbing in 1991, has been a vocal advocate for disability rights and access to justice.

Their home in Edmonton has been a refuge for over a dozen children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, legally adopted by the couple. Catherine first encountered FAS while still in college, when she took in her nephew with the condition. The family's commitment to fostering these children, many with significant behavioral and medical needs, has earned them recognition from the Pope, who praised their efforts during a private audience in 2017.

Together, Austin and Catherine have written books for adults and children, drawing from their experiences with the mentally ill and socially marginalized. Their stories often feature a basset hound named Gandy, which they gave to Pope Francis during their 2019 audience. The couple's partnership is grounded in both faith and service, and their efforts have been recognized with the Knight and Dame Commanders in the Order of St. Sylvester, the highest papal honor a layperson can receive.