In Support of Those with Mental Illness

I wanted to tell you about an upcoming event that I am participating in that is both very important and very exciting to me. It is NAMIWalks for the Mind of America, NAMI’s signature walkathon event that is being held in Fresno, CA at Woodward Park on May 20, 2006.

I have a brother who is bipolar (manic-depressive). His mental illness has affected all of my family. It is hard to describe the pain mental illness causes, both to the person who has it and to all who love them, unless you have lived through it yourself. What makes it so hard is that since it affects BEHAVIOR, people don't think about it the same way they do other medical conditions that require medication, such as diabetes and heart conditions. I love my brother dearly, and am participating for my second year as a symbol of how much I love and support him.

I would like to ask you to donate to support my participation in this great event. Any amount is greatly appreciated! Visit my personal walker page to sign up:

http://www.nami.org/namiwalks06/FRE/mary

It features a link to my team's page where you can see who else is walking with me. There is also a link so you can donate directly to me online. Donating online is fast and secure, and I'll get immediate notification via e-mail of your donation. I would appreciate even the smallest donations, as they all add up and can make a difference!

NAMI, the Nation's Voice on Mental Illness, formerly the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, is the largest education, support and advocacy organization that serves the needs of all those who’s lives are touched by these illnesses. This includes persons with mental illness, their families, friends, employers, the law enforcement community and policy makers.. The NAMI organization is composed of approximately 1100 local affiliates, 50 state offices and a national office.

The goals of the NAMIWalks program are: to fight the stigma that surrounds mental illness, to build awareness of the fact that the mental health system in this country needs to be improved and to raise funds for NAMI so that they can continue their mission.

NAMI is a 501(c)3 charity and any donation you make to support my participation in this event is tax deductible. NAMI has been rated by Worth magazine as among the top 100 charities "most likely to save the world" and has been given an "A+" rating by The American Institute of Philanthropy for efficient and effective use of charitable dollars. NAMI has also been given 4 out of 4 stars by The Charity Navigator for short-term spending practices and long-term sustainability.

Thank you in advance for your support. :)