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The sponsorship deadline for this event has passed
A message from Theresa:
A message from Theresa: Welcome to my personal web page for NAMIWalks for the Mind of America. I have created this fundraising page because NAMI, and the work they do, is very important to me.
My Mission... Panic Disorder and Major Depression have changed my life forever. But I wouldn't change a thing! I have dedicated myself to becoming an advocate and encourager to those individuals and their families who suffer from Mental Illness. When saying nothing says everything, you are not alone. Working with national and international agencies it is my goal to increase the scope and availability of professional care free from stigma or shame. Not only for those who suffer from Mental Illness, but also for the families, spouses, and parents who suffer along with their loved one.
MY STORY.... The broken become masters at mending.... No one likes to talk about Depression. But, as my husband said, somebody has got to because no one does. I didn’t choose Depression, it chose me. 11 years ago after several trips to the emergency room and numerous medical tests, I was diagnosed with Panic Disorder. A year later during a difficult divorce from an abusive spouse I was diagnosed with Major Depression. I honestly had no idea I was depressed, I just thought I was tired. I was very reluctant to take medication, but I did as I wanted to do all I could to get better. None of the medications seemed to work and only made me feel worse. After a severe reaction to one medication, I was hospitalized. After being admitted as a “Psyche Patient” I was searched for items that I could potentially use to harm myself and was put in a room with no mirrors, a locked restroom, a sink and a bed. Sadly enough, I was very afraid of the other patients. As I lay on the floor crying, I asked God “Was it something I did wrong? Is that why I am here?” I was too tired and broken to argue with God at this point. When you get to the absolute end of yourself, there is only one way to go. “Lord, if this is what you have for me, I will take it and I will still praise you. Lord, all I ask is that you don’t let this experience, go to waste”. I was (and still am) humbled by the honor of those God has placed in my life to share my story. There is no illness, no medication and no diagnosis that can keep you from the love of God. I personally believe that God allowed my experience so that I would depend upon and define myself by Him. I am who God says I am. “Fearfully and wonderfully made” and “Well equipped for every good work” and most important that “I was not given a spirit of fear, but of power of love and of a sound mind”.
It's not your fault. Depression is real! 20 Million American's suffer from Depression every year! All ethnic, racial, socioeconomic groups suffer from depression. Depression, left untreated, can lead to suicide, one of the top ten causes of death in all age ranges and is the leading cause of disability in our country. It's estimated that 1 in 5 will experience Depression in their lifetime. Together, with your help, let's make a difference.
Donating to me through this page is easy, fast and secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me. Any amount will make a difference for NAMI and perhaps to someone you know... Both NAMI and I appreciate your donation. Thank you for your support. God Bless, Theresa For more information on Mental Illness, Advocacy, resource information please visit www.nami.org For information and support with faith and Mental Health Illness issues please visit www.faithnet.nami.org
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