Thursdays with NAMI—7 p.m. July 1, 2021

Donna Carrington and Jerlano Bell have powerful stories to tell. Donna, the product of two West Virginia coal mining families, saw the impacts of poverty, substance use and mental health conditions on her family. As an adult she survived abusive relationships, homelessness, and a suicide attempt. Jerlano, introduced to drugs and alcohol at 13, found they helped him to cope with the aftermath of abuse and feelings of being alone. As his addiction progressed, he lost everything – friends, family, and money. He was in his 30’s when he got the help he needed.

Today Donna is the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment Fund of Durham, where she is able to “help and advocate for people whose stories were like mine.” Jerlano has turned his life around as well: “I have healthy relationships… my own business. I know what freedom feels like.”

How did they regain their mental health and their lives? Tune in and find out.

Thursdays with NAMI starts at 7pm and is free and open to all. Join us via Facebook Live or click here to register to participate via Zoom and to view the schedule for future sessions.