Can you please introduce yourself? You can include highlights from your professional background, education, life experience and more. In your response it will be beneficial to indicate how your background will contribute to the success of CMHA’s Board.
I am a production assistant for a Vancouver voice company and a freelance writer. I have a BA in language, a diploma in professional writing and have started a master’s degree in publishing. My background is in social media, teaching, communications, publishing and research.
I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder II. I have struggled with misdiagnoses, waiting lists for psychiatrists and treatment programs, and worst of all, stigma. Last year, my life came crumbling down when I was taken off my medication by a neurologist and ended up in hospital.
I fought hard to get my life back. I have gone through the system and suffered even more greatly for it. I want to be a voice for those who don’t have one. I want to make the worst part of having a mental illness, the illness itself. Not the stigma, the health care system, the government, being homeless or being alone.
My experience in social media and online organizing can help the Board successfully plan and execute online strategies. But even more, I offer experience in having a mental illness and in dealing with the systems set up in our province to support mental health consumers.
