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How Collecting Brings Joy and Connection: The Stories of Passionate Collectors

Five years ago, Tristan Sacrey hit an all-time low in his life after a breakup, job loss, and the ongoing grief of losing his father two years prior. In the midst of this turmoil, he was encouraged by his therapist to seek ways to feel a connection to his father. It was then that his mother unearthed his cherished collection of Scooby-Doo books from their basement, rekindling a flood of nostalgic memories.

“It was the deepest, darkest depression of my existence,” Sacrey recalls. “Then came this spotlight: ‘What’s that over there? Scooby-Doo.’” The memories he associated with the beloved cartoon were powerful reminders of happier times, including outings to rent Scooby-Doo movies with his dad and receiving a wizard costume to match his plush Scooby-Doo doll on Halloween.

These emotional connections inspired Sacrey to create a dedicated space in his Brampton, Ontario apartment, affectionately known as the “Scooby room.” This vibrant room boasts over 1,000 collectibles featuring the iconic Great Dane and his friends, representing more than just memorabilia for Sacrey but a means of healing and connection.

For collectors like Sacrey, the pursuit goes beyond merely acquiring items. Each piece serves as a vessel for joy, nostalgia, and community. Similar sentiments are echoed by Charlotte Bakker, who has transformed her home in Paris, Ontario, into a sanctuary for her extensive doll collection, which spans hundreds of meticulously arranged dolls. Bakker’s passion was ignited by a gift from her mother at the age of seven, and her obsession grew after winning a doll at an auction in 1983. “It’s become an addiction,” she admits, showcasing the artistry and intricacies of her collectibles.

Bakker’s dedicated collection area, a loft custom-built in her home, is filled with dolls displayed in various setups. She shares her hobby with her husband, who is actively involved in attending doll shows with her, providing support as she engages with other enthusiasts. The friendships forged through this shared passion add to the joy of collecting, as evidenced by Bakker’s purchase of pieces from other collectors’ estates.

The Bonds of Collecting

David Steckley, another passionate collector, has devoted over six decades to amassing a remarkable collection of over 5,500 license plates. His Acton, Ontario basement showcases an array of plates with varying histories, showcasing the evolution of motor vehicle markers in Canada. Steckley illuminates the thrill of hunting for plates at conventions, garage sales, and even online, emphasizing the camaraderie among collectors during annual gatherings he organizes.

“Well, I suppose to a layperson, they might see us as somewhat eclectic or strange,” Steckley muses. His induction into the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association Hall of Fame last year is a testament to his dedication and the stories intertwined with each plate.

Reverting back to Sacrey’s Scooby room, the space is a vibrant testament to his nostalgia. Decorated with a blue shag rug, neon-painted walls, and shelves brimming with DVDs, themed dolls, and unique items like a Scooby-Doo car hitch, each item has its own story. However, it is a treasured photograph of his father riding a Scooby-Doo themed roller-coaster that holds a particularly special significance for him, serving as a poignant reminder of their bond.

“Everyone needs something to hold on to. For me, I needed to hold on to my dad in a way that wasn’t hurting me,” Sacrey reflects. His collection has not only helped him cope with his grief but has also allowed him to connect with his partner, Brad, who shares his enthusiasm for Scooby-Doo.

Their initial connection blossomed during the pandemic, sparked by Sacrey’s profile picture featuring a Scooby-Doo mask. The couple’s shared passion results in frequent excursions across Ontario, hunting for rare finds to expand their collection. Sacrey’s online presence has grown, attracting over 60,000 followers on TikTok, where he shares their journeys and interacts with fellow fans who send items from their childhood.

“This has been the most important thing I’ll ever do. At the same time, it hasn’t even started,” concludes Sacrey, embodying the idea that collecting can be a powerful act of connection, healing, and community. It’s a reminder that amid life’s challenges, passions like collecting can offer solace and spark joy, creating a tapestry of memories that resonate deeply within.

Source
globalnews.ca