At one time in my life I did not believe in Mental Illnesses, such as SchIzophrenia and others. That was until I had a chance to work - help someone with Schizophrenia in a DT&H program in MN. I realized then and only then it was  real. Not just something I or you would see on TV, and or in the movies. I also realized then mental health is on the back burner in MN. And because of that a lot of people not just in MN but in every state do not know much about it! I also realzied because of this not a lot of help is available to help people with things such as Schiophrenia. And if that person is lucky to get help it may not be the proper kind? Also he or she maybe embrassed to get - ask for help because of the stigma with Schizophrenia and other mental illnesses!

You may see and or hear about people with a Mental Illness in the news or see them on a TV show, or in the movies. All you may see is the bad stuff. Take a TV show for example. It was based on a guy who had Schizophrenia who would see images of people. The images would tell him - encourage him to kill radome strangers at any  time. I feel this sheds a bad light on all people with Schizophrenia. Could this happen - does it happen yes. Does it happen all the time no. So why is it you only hear about all the bad stuff on TV about this? Did you know in MN it was Mental Health Day on the   on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 in MN? I did not hear and or see anything about this in the media!  Maybe you did but I did not!

So I want all my family, friends and or everyone, to better understand Mental Health and Mental Illnesses not just in MN but in all 50 states! I also hope and pray one day we can help find a cure for Mental diseases such as Schizophrenia and other Mental illness. I also want people to not only listen but to help in any way you can with a person with a mental Illness. Maybe just, maybe, you or I could help someone with a mental illness and maybe, just maybe, help save a LIFE?

So this is the deal. I will be running the Twin Cities Marathon next year, 2013, 26.2 miles. My goal is to raise 600..oo the six is for the 26 in the marathon. If you donate any amount, You will have a chance to send in a hair style - vote for one! Also if you donate the most you will recive a picture of me with the winning hair style running in the marathon! I know it is not much but it is something:-)

Also take a look at the Web site for Mental Health Association Of MN, Listen, learn and help! Do good and keep it in MN!!