On Monday, we shared with readers the moving speech delivered by staff member Lezlie Poole at the most recent RESPECT Institute of Georgia graduation ceremony. Three Perry Wellness Center graduates shared their personal stories of challenges and recovery, followed by Lezlie’s words about why she became involved in the field of mental health.

Her speech, “The Concept of AFTER,” was so powerful that she was asked to deliver this same message on local WISK radio.  It was felt that this message needed to be heard by others in the community who might need encouragement and direction. WISK’s Thurston Clary made the arrangements, and Lezlie delivered her speech on-air earlier this week.

After the presentation, Perry Wellness Center founder and CEO Stuart Perry reminisced about the relationship between the local radio station and PWC. “Thurston has been a longtime advocate for mental health,” Stuart noted. “He and I go way back for many year. We are now on a mission to take this challenge to others. I am pleased to be here with Lezlie as she delivers her speech.” Stuart has dedicated much of the last two decades providing a voice on behalf of mental health advocacy, and he encourages others to do the same. Speaking out can help reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental illness and provide needed information about a public health problem that is infrequently acknowledged.

Our thanks to Thurston Clary and WISK!

Pictured above are, left to right: Stuart Perry, Lezlie Poole, and Thurston Clary at WISK radio.