https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UqfrH74wc0
This weekend I will be traveling 1500 miles to participate in my 3rd Overnight Walk for Suicide Prevention. Every year is an emotional journey for so many reasons, but this year in a way its even more emotional for me. This year I have been selected to stand on stage and represent those of us who wear the “green beads”…those who struggle with depression, addiction and other mental disorders. For me this is such an important gesture, because I wholeheartedly believe that mental illness or the things we struggle do not have the power to keep us from our dreams. I am suicide attempt survivor. Someone who battled depression for more than a decade. Someone who struggled with addictions that destroyed my life ,my relationships, my body, and the how I viewed my self.
But I am here, years later getting the training that will allow me to be able to help others in the future. Some days are still hard, but I have the tools and support system that allow me to handle those feelings. I am not defined by a mental illness, or an addiction. Many have done it before me, and I will help other to do the same in their own lives.
I will fight everyday. Because I am stronger than the things that want to destroy me.
This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I’m alright song
My power’s turned on
(Starting right now) I’ll be strong
I’ll play my fight song
I encourage everyone out there to keep fighting. I believe in you.
Hope Rising Project 