NAMIMass wants to spread the word that Mental Illnesses are treatable, that children and adults can recover, attend school, become employed and lead productive lives.
  But the stigmas associated with a diagnosis can be nearly as damaging as the illness itself. And because May is the Mental Health Awareness Month, it is only natural that NAMIMass continues to raise awareness by hosting their annual NAMIWalks, at Artesani Park in Brighton.
  The walk, which will be on Saturday, May 15th, is officially called "Changing Minds...One Step At A Time", and fittingly describes what so many of us try to do for our kids no matter their diagnosis.
  If you want to find out how to "Change Minds" and take part in NAMIMass's walk, visit  www.namimass.org or call 781-938-4048, and take a step to stop the stigma.
Sharon Marie
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April is "Autism Awareness Month", and if your family is not affected by this disability, I'll bet you know someone's who is.
Autism is everywhere whether we want it to be or not. And now, as the many support organizations
throughout the state host autism workshops, speakers, safety fairs and more, try to attend as many as possible to see the good works being done.
Then pass along the info to other families who don't have the time, childcare or money to go. You'll be doing your part to help parents fight the good fight for our children.
Because for some of us, it's not just another Autism Awareness Month. It's Autism Awareness Day, every day.
Sharon Marie