As we prepare to host our first-ever NAMIWalks Washtenaw County event on Saturday, November 8, we’re inviting team leaders and participants to share why they walk to support mental health. We spoke to NAMI WC Community Engagement Coordinator Pat Doyle about participating in the event and raising awareness about mental health. Here’s what Pat had to say:
1. What inspired you to start or join a NAMIWalks Washtenaw County team? I drew my inspiration for participating in the Walk from my brother-in-law, a Vietnam veteran. He has been a NAMI Washtenaw County member and a volunteer facilitator for the NAMI education program, Homefront, while living in Illinois. He has never wavered in his commitment to NAMI’s mission. He now lives in Atlanta and while visiting this summer he announced that he would like to donate to our NAMIWalks event. This donation was in recognition for my many years of volunteer and staff work with our affiliate.
2. Is there a personal story or reason behind your involvement? Why do you choose to walk for NAMI and mental health? I have a family member who was diagnosed with a chronic serious mental health condition as a young adult. At that time I had no knowledge of brain illnesses and no tools to advocate. I felt helpless and hopeless to be able to engage or provide support for this important person in my life. By chance, I was introduced to NAMI while attending an out of state wedding.
I then made the decision to register for the Family-to-Family education class, which changed my life in many ways. I learned how to communicate and problem solve with my loved one, while caring for myself. In gratitude, I began volunteering and soon realized that this became my ongoing support, I wasn’t alone in my journey and that there was hope.
3. If you’ve participated in a NAMIWalks event before, how would you describe it? What are you looking forward to this year? I love the idea of walking with others who share the same mission. It reminds me of the importance of eliminating the stigma and increasing awareness around mental health. It motivates me to continue this vital work in our community. I am looking forward to this first-ever NAMIWalks Washtenaw County event.
4. Why is mental health advocacy important to you, and how does participating in NAMIWalks help you support it? Mental health awareness and advocacy are important in helping to erase stigma, normalize mental health conditions, increase research and contribute to early and consistent treatment. Having events like the Walk, which is a show of solidarity, can encourage others to become active too.
Interested in starting or joining a team? Visit the NAMIWalks Washtenaw County page to learn more and get involved. Fundraising is not required to participate, but registration is required. We hope to see you there!
