http://www.mikesstory.com/index.htmlLive Your Life Now...enmike@mikesstory.comCopyright 2007 MIDACOM.INC2010-02-19T08:04:58-05:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:41:56 -0400mike@mikesstory.comFamily2010-02-19T08:04:58-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/7d2ad4a5d9ffaf2cc51fc9d643c0d045-84.html#unique-entry-id-84http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/7d2ad4a5d9ffaf2cc51fc9d643c0d045-84.html#unique-entry-id-84

Hello, my name Carmy Santoro and I am Mike’s sister.

I am very proud of Mike’s accomplishments and even more proud that Mike decided to take his personal experience with mental health and use it to help others who are diagnosed with a mental illness. We are all unique and what works for one is not necessarily a recipe that works for everyone but there are elements that are always true such as NEVER LOSE HOPE, REMAIN POSITIVE and GIVING UP IS NEVER AN OPTION.

When Mike was diagnosed, our family did not know where to start in order to help Mike. It was over 25 years ago and things have changed and evolved since. There are resources now but unfortunately they are not well known.

There are great efforts being made by our political leaders to educate and break down prejudices about mental illness. You may have seen ads on TV or radio or billboards that invite us to break the silence of mental illness. Prejudice is the cancer of mental illness because at times it prevents people from seeking help for fear of being labeled as a mental patient. We all have a role to play in eliminating prejudice and accepting people with mental illness as being complete beings who have rights and dreams and also the right to dream of a better future for themselves.

MikesStory.com is a site that invites you to follow the story of Mike, who in spite of his mental illness is a person who contributes significantly to our society.

Welcome to you all and hope to meet you one day.

Till next time, keep well
Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2010-01-04T10:22:08-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a6bb32601bae3e92c99fd6d3552a8d0e-83.html#unique-entry-id-83http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a6bb32601bae3e92c99fd6d3552a8d0e-83.html#unique-entry-id-83

I am Mike’s daughter. My name is Chelsie. I would like to say this message to Daddy. I would like to congratulate my Daddy for doing The 80/20 Project and this website. I want to say a big congratulation! I want many people to be interested in this project and his website. Congratulations to Daniel Gervais who made The 80/20 Project with my father. He, too, I want to say a big congratulations. Congratulations to you both. Good luck at making people interested in hearing what you have to say to the world and to those who come to your presentations.

Thank you to my Dad for making The 80/20 Project and for helping people.

Daddy, I love you.
Chelsie Santoro XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX
7 years old
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2010-01-03T16:37:19-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/4d7ab8fbd2488bbd269f83e8e4bd97da-81.html#unique-entry-id-81http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/4d7ab8fbd2488bbd269f83e8e4bd97da-81.html#unique-entry-id-81

Click on the photo to go to article.]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-12-06T12:37:17-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/46771d9014ad33eb17bca089511b6288-78.html#unique-entry-id-78http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/46771d9014ad33eb17bca089511b6288-78.html#unique-entry-id-78

Now, I experience my sensitivity more meaningfully. I trust myself more and I find it easier to involve myself in activities. The shadow of anxiety still follows me, but it is not as overwhelming as before. I decided to look for help and get well.

I believe accepting the patterns of my anxiety do pave the way to be more in control of my life. These patterns are always within a context or environment that will trigger more anxiety and I have to adjust my behavior in these situations. For example: when there is more work at my job I will have to rest more the night before and make sure I eat properly. It sounds basic, but the aim is to calm down and picture what is going to happen when the stress becomes unbearable. I need to face it instead of drowning with the stress. I call this strategy my prevention rules and regulations. This attitude consists mainly of being more aware of what is happening to me.

I practice mindfulness and create this calmness when I do my meditation. This is my daily rule in maintaining my mental health. It has proved to be very useful when my environment is full of tension and misunderstandings take place. This allows me to keep my determination in staying in control in difficult situations.

It took me many years to adapt to my patterns of anxiety because sometimes it reminds me that my life is not always going smooth and that I have to try even harder. Also, it brings me back to anxious relationships in my family. There are some problems of anxiety amongst my siblings and my parents were also prone to anxiety. There was never any discussion on this topic and I kept my problems to myself. In my environment in the 1970’s, there were no opportunities to discuss anything about mental health. I was sent for therapy in my teenage years and in my twenties. I had to make sense of my story only through my therapists.

Sylvie Albert, April 2009
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2009-11-14T14:09:34-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d83cc72108932734e928b71b35c4ed30-77.html#unique-entry-id-77http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d83cc72108932734e928b71b35c4ed30-77.html#unique-entry-id-77
It is not me with the mental illness…it is my brother, my poor brother. I thank god everyday for my mental health and everything I have been blessed with in my life. I feel a lot of what I have in my life is a big fat bonus, things I never expected. Watching my brother suffer day in and day out, struggling with his existence makes my problems seem so small. He is my problem, he, actually his illness has broken my heart, and continues to do so everyday.

His life never goes anywhere; it goes around in circles, from worse to worse. He lives in poverty, in a mess, dirty apartment that he can’t keep clean, wearing clothes that he can’t manage to wash. He is ANGRY. He is always angry. He yells at me and I always have to remember not to let him, hang up, I keep telling myself. It takes a lot of strength, and discipline. I struggle with not getting angry at him, not yelling back. Sometimes I don’t have it in me, and wish he wasn’t my brother.

I try really hard to make sense of what he says, and I wish I could believe him. Then I wonder why I bother even listening to him on the phone, or going by his apartment to drop stuff off or attempt a supper. The stuff he talks to me about is mostly lies, the money I give him is wasted on drugs and alcohol, and the suppers are a waste of time ending up in a disaster with the food either not touched or all over the place.

It is sooooo confusing. I love my brother, miss him terribly, feel helpless around him, and only wish I could make his suffering go away forever. Unfortunately……I can’t. I need help sometimes……AMI-Quebec has been a great support, actually the only place I have ever gone for support. Whenever I need to talk, someone is there to listen. I always feel understood, validated, and supported. They cannot take away the pain I have for losing a brother to this dreadful disease, no one can, but they can sometimes make it a little easier.

Anonymous

]]>mike@mikesstory.com80/20 Project2009-10-30T11:12:37-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3ed8458bf46b1a2c12f59906b9b156c9-76.html#unique-entry-id-76http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3ed8458bf46b1a2c12f59906b9b156c9-76.html#unique-entry-id-76

When Mike spoke to me of his DVD, I had no idea of the scope of his project or how professionally he presented it. I knew Mike in secondary 3 as a student but I am now amazed at how his potential has evolved.

The 80/20 Project sets out to inform the public about mental illness. It accomplishes this end so very effectively through the eyes of Mike Santoro. Only a person living through the experience could depict the triumphs and rejections, the hopes and failures that mental illness brings.

Throughout the DVD, a positive thread runs through and hope springs eternal! Acceptance and patience permeate the narrative. Surely with new medical discoveries, dedicated professionals and understanding and supportive friends and family, as well as with God’s help the immediate future looks brighter.

Jo Coirazza
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2009-09-15T21:52:08-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f2dd81cfd0748d2edc3c90decc7d99c5-75.html#unique-entry-id-75http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f2dd81cfd0748d2edc3c90decc7d99c5-75.html#unique-entry-id-75


]]>mike@mikesstory.comFriends2009-09-12T10:07:39-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/46d6b70648ab9403d4aad18d30a1bc29-74.html#unique-entry-id-74http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/46d6b70648ab9403d4aad18d30a1bc29-74.html#unique-entry-id-74

I’ve known Mike for a very long time. I first met him in grade 1 at our elementary school and we’ve been friends ever since. I’ve seen Mike go through good times and bad times as well as several relapses.

I remember his first relapse after his father died. At the time, I did not know he had a mental illness; I only knew he was too sick to come to school. The first time I was involved in one of Mike’s relapses I was seventeen. At the time, I knew very little about mental illness and I had no idea if Mike was going to get better or if it was even possible for him to get better.

Mike was able to take control of his illness and has not had a major relapses since 1995. Mike sees his doctor on a regular basis and takes his medication, but the main reason for his success is his attitude and the conscious effort he makes to stay well. Mike has adjusted his lifestyle to prevent relapses and all the meanwhile he was able to lead a normal life. He has a family a home and an active social life.

Jack Novielli
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2009-08-23T13:40:18-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/1f2508065fbe15088f139f3f9cd62b25-73.html#unique-entry-id-73http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/1f2508065fbe15088f139f3f9cd62b25-73.html#unique-entry-id-73

My earliest memory of my Uncle Mike’s illness is not a very clear one, seeing as how I was quite young. I was about 3 or 4 years old, and my parents and I were visiting my grandmother one evening. The most distinctive part of this memory involves me hiding under the kitchen table in fear, as there was a lot of yelling and loud noises surrounding me. It appeared to me that my uncle and grandmother had had some sort of disagreement. After punching a hole in the hallway wall and/or smashing the television set (these occurred either on two separate occasions or on the same night – I wasn’t old enough to recall exact details), my uncle stormed out of the house. I remember peeking out the living room window later on, watching my uncle sitting on a neighbor’s front steps as he went over the evening’s events with his neighborhood friends.

Throughout my childhood, I went on various outings with my uncle. He would take me to the movies, or out to eat, or sightseeing downtown, and other fun things. I use to look forward to our excursions – we got to spend a lot of quality time together. But every once in a while he would cancel on me, sometimes at the last minute, and I’d always find out through my parents.

It wasn’t until adolescence that I finally learned what was going on – my parents told me that Uncle Mike was manic depressive, more commonly known today as bi-polar disorder. I didn’t really know anything about mental illness, so I tried to find out about it on my own (not such an easy task without the convenience of the internet!). I discovered that genetics were commonly involved, which caused me to wonder if one day I would also develop a mental illness.

Looking back over the past 15+ years and knowing what I know now, everything makes sense – the mood swings, the frequent absences and cancellations, the many times people would tell me “Mike’s not feeling well” or that he was in the hospital... Sometimes I feel bad thinking about how what I thought was a lack of responsibility was really a mental illness, but that’s what happens when one is not properly informed. I can’t say that I blame anyone for not telling me sooner – I guess my family was just trying to protect me.

These days I still think fondly of my uncle, who has developed into a wonderful family man with a “regular” life just like any other person. I’m glad that he’s got his illness under control, and that he hasn’t let it control him. I’m also grateful for our family and all his other support systems, which I’m sure, played a big part in helping him get and stay well.

So here’s to you, Uncle Mike – the “real Uncle Mike” =) May you always be happy and healthy, and continue reaching for your dreams.

Love your niece,
Sandra Giannuzzi
]]>mike@mikesstory.comWork2009-08-04T10:07:25-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2eb1da79081d98140b6a9400dbc5e6c5-72.html#unique-entry-id-72http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2eb1da79081d98140b6a9400dbc5e6c5-72.html#unique-entry-id-72

I first saw Mike in a psycho-education session at AMI-Quebec, in 1998. The topic of the evening included a viewing of Mike’s 1st documentary that he made in 1995 and a round-table discussion. I remember being amazed at how calm and well thought out his answers were, especially when he was asked about his future aspirations of being a father. A few years later, I met Mike again when he started working for AMI-Quebec, as the administrative assistant. One of his tasks was to perform bookkeeping duties. You cannot see, but I’m smiling right now. It was due to Mike’s perseverance and obsessive-ness about details that made him perfect for the position! There were times Mike and AMI-Quebec felt he could not do the job, but I saw potential, and I’m glad Mike plugged along (and Ella, his boss, trusted me on this one). Not only did he learn and understand all that was shown to him (credits, debits, payroll deductions, insurance, filing cabinet systems, bank reconciliation…. which is no small feat for a non-accountant) but he upgraded the accounting system, and put the books in pristine order. At the end of that first year, the auditors congratulated him on a wonderful job – there were no corrections to be made! I’m very proud of Mike (can you tell?). His drive to fulfill what he sets his mind to is inspiring. I have much to learn from him.

Have a wonderful day,
Giovanna Donnini
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2009-07-21T11:41:18-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/0c00511c25e82f4e59c17daf883b4ae5-71.html#unique-entry-id-71http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/0c00511c25e82f4e59c17daf883b4ae5-71.html#unique-entry-id-71

It was a day I'll never forget January 31, 2005, when my son, Vince, who was 25, had a psychotic break with reality and became ill. My experience with mental illness was not great but I did have a long time friend with an illness and I was thankful I knew a little bit about it. I thank God Vince was willing to come to the Douglas Hospital, at which point after a long agonizing wait in ER, he was asked if he would like to stay. I'll always remember his words "Mom, I'm going to stay and chill out". I was so grateful he was agreeable and so the journey of healing began.

It was a time to explore this sometimes very unkind sickness. I tried to find out as much as I could about mental illness by going to workshops and talking to doctors and nurses.

I have had cancer twice but this illness was far more devastating than I could have imagined. It is so much more difficult to watch your son suffer silently through this.

I am married to Lou and have two other sons, one who is older than Vince and one who is younger. As a family, we all had such a hard time coping with this unknown illness.

In my search, I found quite a few resources - one being AMI-Quebec where we met wonderful dedicated people - one being Mike Santoro who was an inspiration of hope to us.

Today as I sit and write this on a beautiful sunny day in 2009 – yesterday we went and heard and saw Mike's Presentation of The 80/20 Project. This presentation was held at the Douglas Hospital before a whole auditorium in which he talked about living and recovering with a mental illness.

After this presentation, entertainment was provided and one of the artists was my very own son, Vince, who played two of his own compositions on the banjo. As I watched and cheered, I had tears of joy, that yes, it is a long road but it is filled with love and hope.

LET US NEVER GIVE UP!!!

Ann Antenucci
Written June 11, 2009
]]>mike@mikesstory.comWork2009-07-07T23:57:45-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/1a03c41ab8526c541eb29701cf94123a-70.html#unique-entry-id-70http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/1a03c41ab8526c541eb29701cf94123a-70.html#unique-entry-id-70


In response to Mike’s interest in my assessment of him, this is my view. Having known Mike since 20 some years, I have had the pleasure of witnessing some changes. In the course of my work life, I have dealt with many individuals suffering from chronic mental health problems, predominantly schizophrenia. Sadly, for the most part, the vast majority of these people are continually struggling to little or no avail in relation to the outside world. They have excessive amounts of difficulty in progressing on many levels that the rest of society tends to take for granted.

Mike is different. Here is a guy that although having been stricken with schizo-affective disorder in his early teens, he has an impressive amount of achievements to his credit. Though he had a rocky life in his teen years, it was due to his self awareness, maturity and perseverance that he has gotten to where he is now. After many painful years of refusing to face the reality that he would have this weighty problem for all his life, he finally fully embraced his illness and grew not in spite of, but somehow due to. It’s as if the illness was a wall hampering Mike’s progress in life which he somehow managed to channel the energy from it to help shrink that very wall to a more manageable size. In other words, because of the person that Mike is, he was able to convert (what to somebody else would have been insurmountable), into strength. In addition, Mike makes good use of his support network, never hesitating to get in touch with the appropriate or on occasion all in that network (doctor, community worker, sister, friends, etc.). By this action Mike is in essence nipping it in the bud before his difficulties overwhelm him.

To some, he could be considered lucky. But we all really know that you make your own luck. Mike has an amazing amount of energy and achieves a lot of good with it. He has a very organized and clear idea of where he wants to go in life, and he gets there.

It has been my pleasure and honor to have been working with Mike all this time and I hope to continue doing it for many more years.

John Stall
Social Integration/Placement Counselor
Forward House
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-06-25T16:36:26-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/c6e3397062029b073f49e6e036c616c6-69.html#unique-entry-id-69http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/c6e3397062029b073f49e6e036c616c6-69.html#unique-entry-id-69

The tenth and final theme from the 80/20 DVD I would like to comment on is the importance of being grateful to your caregivers.

As we are consumed by our illness, and all the ways that it has altered our reality and our abilities, it can be very easy to forget how our illness affects those around us and how much we need their help. We simply could not recover without our caregivers, and my belief is that we should be openly and consistently grateful.

Let’s consider this question: who faces the more challenging reality, the mental illness sufferer or the spouse, family member or loved one who tries to offer support each day, all the while overcoming feelings of helplessness and fear?

In my opinion, the answer is that our caregivers face the larger challenge, for the simple reason that they are not forced to face the reality of mental illness. We must deal with the symptoms of our illness – they are there, a part of us – however our caregivers remain and help us by choice, out of love and concern. Theirs is a difficult path, and their choice is incredibly generous.

Of course, some are unable to do so and withdraw. Most caregivers, however, rise admirably to the challenge and learn what is needed of them – and then offer it every day, month and year to the best of their abilities. And I am eternally grateful to every single caregiver in my life for all they have given, and all they continue to offer me.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-06-16T08:27:04-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f78d1bd6f52c19910a8ed59027dbf83b-68.html#unique-entry-id-68http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f78d1bd6f52c19910a8ed59027dbf83b-68.html#unique-entry-id-68

The ninth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how you can ‘own your own illness’. This is a theme that I frequently discuss during my talks to promote mental health awareness and break down stigma. If there is one aspect of how we respond to our mental illness that is truly an anchor for all other factors and choices that could lead to our success, it is this.

In my experience, every single person who has managed to recover and live well, despite their continued struggle with mental illness, has accepted their situation and taken responsibility for their wellness. They own their illness; it doesn’t own them. They see that they must lead the effort towards their own recovery while those around them can offer support, reassurance and help during the difficult days.

Owning your illness is by no means an easy reality. I struggled for nearly 2 full years before I would even accept my illness for what it was, let alone take ownership of it. However, I can’t help but notice that during those years of denial I was barely treading water and, ultimately, my condition worsened. And yet, after a week-long manic episode, I was faced with the cold loneliness of the inside of a lock-down ward in a mental hospital and the absolute fear in the faces of my loved ones as they wondered what I might do next. That was when I finally accepted that I had an illness, and it was called Bipolar Disorder.

I began to research my illness, the possible treatments and the lifestyle changes that I could effect. I began not only to accept my illness, but also to become an expert on it. I began to own it. And, for me, it was clearly the right path – within 6 months I stabilized and this June, 2009, I will be celebrating 4 years of wellness and recovery.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-06-02T09:45:07-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d020d031b0adba75124240470fbf7363-67.html#unique-entry-id-67http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d020d031b0adba75124240470fbf7363-67.html#unique-entry-id-67

The eighth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how managing your stress levels can prevent instability in your life and, therefore, prevent a potential relapse. This key subject touches on a truly vital aspect of any individual’s path to sustained wellness.

Many mental illnesses, including my bipolar disorder, require some form of medical treatment in order to stabilize. However, as Mike stresses in his 80/20 DVD title, medication may be an important tool to reduce the symptoms of depression, bipolar or any other mental illness but it alone cannot keep us well. How we live every day, how we treat our bodies and minds, paints the rest of the picture.

By finding ways to regulate your sleep – probably the single most important factor in your wellness – you will greatly reduce the chances of a relapse. In addition, reducing the stress that you face each day, while learning to cope with the stress that exists in your life, will have a significant positive impact on your wellness. Other life skills include eating well, exercising, pursuing activities that satisfy and stimulate you as well as moderating your work load and many more.

When combined with medication, all of these life skills will help to create stability, happiness and peace in your life. I completely agree with Mike that relapse is far less likely for a person who is stable, happy and peaceful.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-05-30T10:05:35-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/eab295be03acc9ee65b0124ea8094bc2-66.html#unique-entry-id-66http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/eab295be03acc9ee65b0124ea8094bc2-66.html#unique-entry-id-66


The seventh 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how we can learn from a relapse. I was very interested to find this topic a focal point of Mike’s DVD, as it is such an important skill for anyone with a mental illness – and yet it is rarely discussed.

Speaking from my experience with bipolar, I can especially understand the importance of breaking the cycle of relapse. From the beginning of 2002 to June of 2005 I experienced nearly 20 major shifts in mood, from baseline to depressed to manic and back again. In the early days I would fall from mild hypomania back into severe depression, and in each case I was forced to come to terms with (and learn from) my relapse.

Of course it is never easy to live through relapse. There is frustration, a loss of hope, anger, confusion and fear – and to feel all of these emotions is entirely normal. The key is to resist wallowing in these emotions and allowing them to persist, as they can quickly change from a healthy way of processing trauma to a negative, even corrosive force.

The most effective state of mind for me was to focus on the fact that I had been well before, and therefore I could be again. Or rather, I would be again. By setting my attention on the plain fact that I had not always been ill, I was able to rebuild my hope for my ability to recover. And I always believed that eventually, the recovery-relapse-recovery cycle would end as it does in this sentence: with recovery.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-05-21T23:40:17-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ac6e6e2f5a2c62fd3e883217a25578a5-65.html#unique-entry-id-65http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ac6e6e2f5a2c62fd3e883217a25578a5-65.html#unique-entry-id-65

The sixth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is communicating about your illness. Since mental illness has stigma attached to it, this decision can be much more complicated than it would be with a physical illness. For that reason, I must encourage you to come to your own conclusions – after seeking advice from family, close friends and your doctor – as to what is best for you. I can only share my experience, with the hope that it may help you with yours.

As I first began to experience symptoms of bipolar disorder, I fell deeply into the trap of self-stigma. I guarded my ‘secret’ as a very private matter and refused to tell anyone beyond those very close to me. It was only after I had taken 2 leaves of absence from my work and lived nearly 2 years with symptoms that I learned a different way to deal with my illness.

It struck me that I had experienced a failure in the function of a major organ before – my heart once required open heart surgery to correct a birth defect. I was 12 at the time of the surgery, and there was no secrecy surrounding my condition. When it was appropriate, those who needed or wanted to know were informed while the rest weren’t.

Since bipolar is a malfunction in my brain chemistry, why should I treat this condition any differently? I realized the only difference was rooted in social stigma, which in itself is rooted in ignorance. I chose to resist by acting in exactly the same way about my bipolar as I would if my heart condition were to return. That meant that many more people in my life, including some colleagues and superiors at my work, were informed in an open and honest way.

For me, this strategy has proven to be very positive. It has helped me to step out from the shadow of stigma that society places on all mental illness sufferers. More importantly, it has helped me to step out from the shadow of my own stigma.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-05-12T23:46:41-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/91acf5831bb249953dc4ffa47772daa4-64.html#unique-entry-id-64http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/91acf5831bb249953dc4ffa47772daa4-64.html#unique-entry-id-64

The fifth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is the importance of never giving up. Resilience is often the single determining factor between success and failure, in any aspect of life. When a person is faced with the challenge of living with a mental illness, their refusal to quit will most certainly be pivotal in how quickly they are able to recover.

I have often heard from others that this is easier said than done, and I agree completely. It can be daunting to try your best every day to fight through the fear and loss that a mental illness can bring. The symptoms of bipolar, depression, schizophrenia, OCD or any other mental illness will challenge the will of even the strongest person.

There were most certainly days, and sometimes weeks and months, when I felt real fear that I may never recover. In those times, I learned to narrow my sights and find smaller ways not to give up. For example, when I was severely depressed I refused to allow myself to go a day without at least going for a short walk. Each day that I willed myself to fulfill that promise was a success; it was an example of my will to never give up.

There is also a blinding truth tied to this theme: we fulfill our own fears once we stop learning, searching, talking, and trying. Allowing yourself to despair will only guarantee that your road to recovery will be longer and rougher. There is no way around this, except of course refusing to ever give up. Having unshakeable hope and belief in your ability to recover can be the most powerful tool available to you.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-05-05T08:21:25-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d050fa74bae3c7b0686818ca366c0595-63.html#unique-entry-id-63http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d050fa74bae3c7b0686818ca366c0595-63.html#unique-entry-id-63

The fourth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is that we are more than our illness. On the face of it, this may seem simple – even somewhat obvious. However, the climate of fear and stigma that still surrounds mental illness makes this a theme that warrants attention.

How can we avoid being defined by our illness, especially when it has the power to alter our behavior? How do we prevent those in our lives from always thinking of us in terms of our illness? These are important questions and, while I don’t pretend to have the answers, I hope that I can help to promote discussion that may lead to your own resolution.

I believe that much of the responsibility lies with the individual who suffers from the mental illness, for they have the power to set the tone in all their relations. When a person refuses to fall prey to self-stigma, they lead others to reconsider their own opinions and level of awareness. If a person avoids speaking too often about their illness and the symptoms that they suffer, they will prevent others from seeing them only from the perspective of the illness.

As I learned to live with bipolar disorder, there were certainly many moments when I felt it had taken over and there was little to differentiate between it and me. Over time, however, I realized that being well meant separating the symptoms of an illness – a physical failure in my brain function – from my spirit, my personality, my reasons for enjoying life and my identity.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-04-24T07:55:58-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2eb2c9f3ed83d9a6f163a774e9208ed4-62.html#unique-entry-id-62http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2eb2c9f3ed83d9a6f163a774e9208ed4-62.html#unique-entry-id-62

The third 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how vital it is to have a strong support system. From my own experience, I can say with confidence that your family, your friends, your partner and the medical professionals in your life can play an essential role in your recovery. Living with a mental illness, especially during the disorienting and frightening initial discovery period, is among the hardest challenges a person will face in their lives. As with every major life challenge, we can’t do it alone.

When I first experienced severe symptoms of bipolar disorder I found solace, guidance and strength in my loved ones. I also learned that I couldn’t rely only on them – it was important that I seek out quality medical care and other resources, as well. I met with a psychologist to explore any possible emotional root to my depression and, when it was clear that I was dealing with something physical, I sought the advice of a psychiatrist. This ultimately led to my diagnosis of bipolar and successful treatment with a mood stabilizer.

During this time, I also discovered AMI-Quebec and the many resources that they have to offer. AMI-Quebec’s Education Program courses and voices of recovery like MikesStory.com helped me to accept my illness, to learn how I could live with it, and to maintain hope that I would recover.

If you or your loved one is living with a mental illness, whether it is a new diagnosis or long-term, I hope that you can accept help from every possible source of support in your life. It can also make a significant difference if you proactively seek out help from doctors and from organizations like AMI-Quebec. I believe that your effort alone will be a step towards wellness.

It was for me.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-04-13T09:59:22-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d8f24e0f32a312b7c1a85c40bef035a0-61.html#unique-entry-id-61http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d8f24e0f32a312b7c1a85c40bef035a0-61.html#unique-entry-id-61

The second 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is the need for role models. The simple truth is that were it not for Mike Santoro acting as a role model, I would not be involved as a member of the anti-stigma effort, nor would I be a spokesperson on living well with a mental illness.

As I began to accept my bipolar disorder, I registered for AMI-Quebec’s Mood & Thought Disorders course. My hope was to learn more about my illness so that I could better manage it. In the third class, a spokesperson was brought in to tell his story of living with mental illness, and to share how he had managed to recover and live well despite the many challenges.

That speaker was Mike Santoro. He was the first person who I had heard speak from experience of what it was like to face the harsh reality I was now facing; he wasn’t a doctor, a nurse, a family member or a friend who was trying to relate to me. He had been there, and he had made it through. I came away having made two decisions. First, I was going to find a way to get better – if Mike could do it, so could I. Second, as soon as I was sure of my wellness I would offer my services to AMI to speak about my experiences. And less than a year later, that is exactly what I did.

It is important to understand that what Mike did for me first was give me hope that I could get better. He also showed me a wonderful way to take this terrible experience, what at times felt like a curse, and turn it into a powerful and positive force.

Mike was a role model to me, and I hope that I can be a role model to others. If anyone is inspired by me or Mike or any other, I hope they will go and share their story or offer their time as a volunteer to any one of many mental health organizations.

As a community, we have the power to make an incredible difference.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-04-06T08:24:12-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2439058f2ec0382c93a52537cd2b7186-60.html#unique-entry-id-60http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2439058f2ec0382c93a52537cd2b7186-60.html#unique-entry-id-60

When Mike Santoro released the 80/20 DVD, like every other member of his network I gladly purchased and viewed it right away. Now that some time has passed, I believe that this important project warrants further discussion. It is for this reason that I have watched the DVD again and am writing a short article on 10 of the themes that resonated with me.

The first 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is that consumers need to stand up for their rights. To me, this issue is truly central to any effort intended to improve the experience of those who suffer from a mental illness. I believe we have more momentum now than ever before, and more work is being done to educate about mental illness and to reduce stigma. However, much of this will be lost when a person living with a mental illness chooses to self-stigmatize or accept stigma from others.

If one chooses to accept poor treatment by their doctors, their family, their friends or co-workers, the efforts of the community surrounding them are lost for that moment.

I speak from experience and, in a way, I am speaking to myself. From 2003 to 2005, when I was suffering from the symptoms of rapid-cycling bipolar disorder, I denied my illness. I hid it from my family, friends and colleagues, I refused to take medication for the first year of symptoms and in general I suffered far more stigma of my own making than from any other.

Since I can’t change how long it took me to find a place of acceptance, peace and clarity, I share my story with you. I sincerely hope that I can help you, or your loved one, find this place sooner than I did.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-03-20T09:40:25-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/05fb09513fecf89f02d91a12c37aab6e-59.html#unique-entry-id-59http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/05fb09513fecf89f02d91a12c37aab6e-59.html#unique-entry-id-59

After battling depression since the age of 11, (after seeing psychiatrists since the age of 15) (puberty, hormone changes = chemical imbalance), I finally crashed in the year 2000. I became suicidal. Lucky for me, psychosis was never part of my illness. I put myself in hospital (only for 4 days) and was “allowed” to be released on the condition that I would not be alone. I lived at my parents’ home for 8 long weeks, slowly recuperating. I didn’t think I had much “oomph” left in me; however I asked friends to research anything (especially places) where I could go to recover. I also aligned myself with my pharmacist to better understand the medications I was on, and certainly to be cautious of any interactions with other things I may have been taking.

All this to say, although I didn’t understand it at the time, I had accepted my illness and I was being proactive towards my recovery. Very shortly after, I went to AMI-Quebec and took an education course (on my illness…Bipolar Type 2), attended support groups, volunteered in the education (high schools) program, and then went on to take ‘facilitator’ training, so that I could lead support groups. I eventually became a “presenter” in high schools, cegeps and community organizations. I presented at the “teachers” conferences and even went on to become the co-coordinator of the education program. Presently, I am on the Board of Directors and a co-chair of the fundraising committee at AMI-Quebec.

I want people to know that recovery is possible!!!! It does not come without hard work. Medication alone is not enough. Whatever one’s first step is in taking action against a very painful struggle, it is a beginning of many steps that need to be battled. Relying on a support system (family, friends) is most helpful. They can give you feedback as to how you are thinking and behaving. Communication is so very important….suffering alone is NOT helpful. I think everyone with a mental illness must stop “stigmatizing themselves”….there’s sure enough stigma “out there”! I’ve come to believe that people stigmatize because they equate mental illness with insanity. This is certainly NOT the case.
I wish everyone suffering to hold your heads up high, and fight for yourself. Nobody can do it for you.
Best of luck,

Sherry Ellen
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2009-03-20T09:28:12-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/e2d1ad41ab51d99541cb3d080f897f2f-58.html#unique-entry-id-58http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/e2d1ad41ab51d99541cb3d080f897f2f-58.html#unique-entry-id-58

From: Elizabeth Gluch, Special Education Teacher: Day Hospital

Here is the feedback from your presentation on September 19, 2008. Congratulations on your amazing work.

There were about 9 patients from the day hospital who attended your presentation. A few of them had no previous knowledge of your situation. We had a discussion group as a follow-up to your talk; these are various comments and main points that came up.

"A message of hope was transmitted by Mike's presentation" (this was the most predominant comment!)

"It was courageous to have a movie made based on his experiences"

"I would have liked more info regarding Mike's earlier state when he was ill"

"I found the presentation more valuable than the movie, which at times seemed a bit cliché"

“The titles of the chapters sound great, about recovery"

"It is really interesting for people who have never gone through it"

"What did Mike actually do (i.e. to accept his illness)"

"This would be great for high school kids"

"It was brave of him to speak publicly in front of others"

"I liked the 1/2 full of energy idea, it's true!"

"Much better than any theoretical stuff"

"What kinds of questions did he ask himself and how did he arrive at any closure around them"

“80/20 philosophy food for thought"

"I had several light bulb moments, i.e. outside eye looking at myself" (by the way, we had a whole discussion around your 5 eyes and what they are; are 2 of those eyes your wife's or sister's eyes; are they your eye glasses)

"Wow, to be able to say that he's happy to have a mental illness"

“The lesson I got was to be able to acknowledge being ill, and not be discouraged"

“The presentation gave me an overall positive feeling"

“The message of continually learning is a great one"
]]>mike@mikesstory.comStigma2009-03-15T09:20:54-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ab4f297dfa9a19e29db667885234515d-57.html#unique-entry-id-57http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ab4f297dfa9a19e29db667885234515d-57.html#unique-entry-id-57

Why does mental illness still face stigma? While most people would never think of making fun of someone with cancer, or any other physical illness, mental health disorders and conditions still remain fair game for ridicule.

Mental vs. physical
Why does the stigma of mental illnesses continue? For one thing, the term "mental illness" suggests that it's not the same as a medical or physical illness. To some, the word "mental" suggests that the illness is not a legitimate medical condition but rather a problem caused by your own choices and actions. People may blame you and think your condition is "all in your head." Furthermore, there are no blood tests or physical evidence to prove that mental illness exists. Professionals can only diagnose mental illness through self-reports and behavior. They may think that a mental health disorder means that you're weak or lazy. They may think that you should just "get over it." And you may begin to think these things about yourself, too.

In reality, mental illnesses have very complex causes, often a mix of your genetics, your biology and your life experiences - most of which are beyond your control. Neuroimaging studies, for instance, show physical changes in the brain associated with mental disorders. And studies show that some mental illnesses run in families, suggesting that they may be due in part to genetics.

Some people also believe that if you have a mental health disorder, you must be dangerous and violent. This perception is often inflamed by media accounts of crime in which someone is vaguely referred to as "mentally ill."

Statistics, however, don't emphasize any connection between mental illnesses and violence. In fact, most people suffering from mental illness are neither violent nor criminals.

Todd Stern M.Ed.
]]>mike@mikesstory.comStigma2009-03-07T17:00:18-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ac024afbfdd63f2576cdd03bb982d90d-56.html#unique-entry-id-56http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ac024afbfdd63f2576cdd03bb982d90d-56.html#unique-entry-id-56

Mental illness has many faces. Just as physical illness manifests itself in many different ways, so too does mental illness. Currently, it is estimated that approximately one in five people suffer from mental illness of one form or another. While it is only human nature for people to fear what we don’t understand, fear of mental illness actually stops people from obtaining the necessary help that they so desperately need. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive than the illness itself.

There are many myths about mental illness. Until people learn the truth, they will continue to deny that mental illness exists at all or avoid the topic all together. Some of the common myths associated with mental illness are:
- People with mental illness are violent and dangerous. The truth is that, as a group, mentally ill people are no more violent than any other group. In fact, they are far more likely to be the victims of violence than to be violent themselves.
- People with mental illness are poor and/or less intelligent. Many studies show that most mentally ill people have average or above-average intelligence. Mental illness, like physical illness, can affect anyone regardless of intelligence, social class or income level.

- Mental illness is caused by a personal weakness. A mental illness is not a character flaw. It is an illness, and it has nothing to do with being weak or lacking will power. Although people with mental illness play a big part in their own recovery, they did not choose to become ill, and they are not lazy because they cannot just "snap out of it."
- Another common myth about mental illness is that it is a single, rare disorder. Mental illness is not a single disease but in fact, a broad classification of many different disorders. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders and organic brain syndromes can cause misery, tears, discrimination, fear and missed opportunities for thousands of Canadians.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Todd Stern M.Ed.
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2009-02-26T07:50:25-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/fed06a48ba3d6c5cccd359a03e3b9480-55.html#unique-entry-id-55http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/fed06a48ba3d6c5cccd359a03e3b9480-55.html#unique-entry-id-55

La Clé des Champs is pleased to present Mike Santoro as Guest Speaker where he will discuss The 80/20 Project

Date: March 3, 2009

Place: La Clé des Champs
2226 Henri-Bourassa East, Suite 100
Montreal (Ahuntsic), Quebec
corner Parthenais Street

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Language: English

Cost: Free

*part of our regular quarterly conference

Please call La Clé des Champs at 514-334-1587 to reserve your seat
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2009-02-20T16:12:55-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/cb2c74ceb045884e8e8642051eab0624-54.html#unique-entry-id-54http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/cb2c74ceb045884e8e8642051eab0624-54.html#unique-entry-id-54

In practical terms, families need information (about mental illness, symptoms, course, prognosis, and services available in the system); they need help in acquiring skills (to cope with the illness and its consequences – problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, assertiveness, stress management), and they need support for themselves in order to go through the hardship of mental illness and resolve their own emotional burden. They need to be helped to build on their strengths, survive their crises, meet their challenges and enhance the quality of their lives. A competence paradigm that replaces the traditional model of pathology that undermined capacity and self esteem can offer a developmental and educational model that focuses on family coping and adaptation, emphasizes the family’s strengths, resources and expertise, and defines relations with professionals as a collaboration, with a sense of mastery and hope.

I suggest that one way to ensure that families receive the attention and support they need is through the creation of a family navigating system. Family navigators are individuals assigned to a family once a relative is diagnosed with a mental illness.

The role of a navigator is to help guide the family through the system, by offering information, support, and referrals to relevant services, and by addressing issues and concerns integral to the course of the illness. (I.e. where would the ill relative live once stable; how to create healthy and supportive relationships that would promote the relative’s recovery while protecting the well-being of the family, etc.)

Navigators could (and should, in my view) be members of community-based organizations, such as family organizations, but they will hardly be effective without the referral and cooperation of the hospitals who diagnose and treat patients. The challenge would be to create a mechanism that could ensure that referrals are done as a matter of course.

The day that each family with a newly diagnosed member will be assigned a “family navigator”, is the day I will feel that families are receiving their fair share of attention and assistance.

Ella Amir
Executive Director
AMI-Quebec Action on mental illness


]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2009-02-14T09:23:58-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/417ca45347f64f8627d6f2135ddf9912-53.html#unique-entry-id-53http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/417ca45347f64f8627d6f2135ddf9912-53.html#unique-entry-id-53

The majority of families have a central role in supporting their relative with a mental illness. They often serve as the primary caregivers and informal case managers. Where they are not involved (with their relative’s care), I suggest that it is the outcome of the lack of support which often leaves them disoriented, ineffective in their attempts to help, and practically makes them secondary casualties of mental illness.

In the era of the recovery movement, it is important to recognize that recovery is a process that both the ill person and the family need to go through in order to reclaim their lives. We know that serious mental illness often has a devastating effect on the entire family. The adjustment process is long and painful and requires courage, determination and support.

This is where professionals have not been doing a very good job; both before the implementation of the current action plan, and, I am afraid, also as the implementation takes hold.

I do understand the limitations of the present system in addressing the needs of families. I do not believe that practitioners in institutions who focus their attention on patients should necessarily be those to offer the support families require. However they are a crucial link in referring families for help. The responsibility of ensuring that support for families is available lies with the Ministry of Health and Social Services and should be secured by its Plan d’action. I do not believe that adequate supports are available at the present time. I have read the Guichet d’acc̀ès en santé mentale pour la clientèle adulte des CSSS document where there are references to what needs to be done to improve the situation. It is an improvement, at least in theory, but the challenge will be to make it happen.
(Part 3 to be continued next week...)

Ella Amir
Executive Director
AMI-Quebec Action on mental illness
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2009-02-05T23:01:00-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d81bdddceddc0405d6501624c2fcde46-52.html#unique-entry-id-52http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d81bdddceddc0405d6501624c2fcde46-52.html#unique-entry-id-52

(The following presentation was given by Ella Amir on November 26, 2008 as part of a round table discussion including viewpoints of health network partners. It was part of an international conference on the integration of mental health into primary care.)

Today, the relationships between family caregivers and practitioners reflect a departure from earlier patterns that characterized the institutional and post-institutional eras. In the earlier days when people with mental illness were kept in hospitals, often for the better part of their lives (or perhaps the worst!), families were little involved and had distant relationships with professionals. Following deinstitutionalization (which often turned into trans-institutionalization), the contact with professionals increased. Families have often served as the first and last resort for their ill relatives but typically with little guidance or support. The contact with professionals, instead of helping with their caregiving role, often magnified the family problems. With the common perception viewing families as dysfunctional and pathogenic, families have often been held accountable for their relative’s illness and pushed to therapy as a means to correct the problem.

Today’s practitioners are increasingly recognizing the contribution families can make to the recovery process of their ill relatives. They are also gradually recognizing that families have particular needs of their own, which are defined by their caregiving role.

So this is the good news. The gradual change in attitude is long over-due, but it will not be sufficient as long as it does not translate into concrete supports for families.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Ella Amir
Executive Director
AMI-Quebec Action on mental illness
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-02-01T13:33:24-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/646cae3f760e393783030fa48de8e2a4-51.html#unique-entry-id-51http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/646cae3f760e393783030fa48de8e2a4-51.html#unique-entry-id-51

In similarity to my experiences while socializing, in school I have had great trouble paying attention to lectures. As is the case when I am interacting with people, my main strategy has been to try to develop a deep interest in what I am being taught. I also write extensive amounts of notes in order to keep me focused on what the professor is telling us. My reading speed is also a concern of mine. Unfortunately, I have not developed any very effective strategy to speed up my reading. I pay the price for a slow reading speed with hours upon hours of work. However, I always leave some time to see friends, since a lack of an adequate social life will surely wind me up in the hospital. What keeps me successful in school is mainly a love for academia, something that makes all the effort worth it.

I think every mentally ill individual has his or her own unique challenges and difficulties. I think every person needs to adapt to his or her own situation and figure out techniques for dealing with what they themselves must face. I hope you have appreciated this article as one mentally ill person’s account of his own personal struggles to lead a healthy, successful life.

Thank you.
Jason Settels
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2009-01-22T16:02:11-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3d06c9472f079353a27f29ebf1b8cefb-50.html#unique-entry-id-50http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3d06c9472f079353a27f29ebf1b8cefb-50.html#unique-entry-id-50

I happen to be a schizophrenic who has struggled very hard to overcome handicaps that have caused me difficulty in socializing with other people and obtaining good grades in my university studies at McGill. Rather than prescribe strategies for other mentally ill individuals, my article will explain what I have done to help me have friends and succeed academically despite severe mental illness. I will begin by describing some of my social challenges, and then I will relate to you what I have done to help myself in school

My major social problem has been paying attention to those who are speaking with me. My attention span is extremely short if I am not making a strong, dedicated effort to attend to my partners in conversation. I have also often complained to my father and brother while asking them for social advice that I have difficulty figuring out what is and what is not appropriate in different social contexts. I have told my father that I feel as if I have no clue how to navigate the social terrain that surrounds me. My strategy for paying attention has been to try my hardest to become sincerely interested in what my conversational partner has to tell me. I also try to plan what I will say next; a strategy that forces me to pay attention in order to pick up cues to which I can respond. To deal with my tendency to gaff during social experiences, I often ask people very close to me for social advice. Sometimes I explain what I said or did and ask whether that was appropriate or not if I feel it might have been uncalled-for. Since I do not ask for advice overly often, people very close to me are willing to share their wisdom with me.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Jason Settels
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPersonal2009-01-09T17:06:27-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a86513442d8368b7c37881a2323ee8ad-49.html#unique-entry-id-49http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a86513442d8368b7c37881a2323ee8ad-49.html#unique-entry-id-49

Two years have now gone by since we started The 80/20 Project. Amazing, isn’t it? Back then the idea was to establish a web site and eventually make a documentary of Mike’s life. Of course, every time you embark on this kind of an adventure, your objectives change and evolve, most of the time for the better. At first, we wanted to document Mike’s life living with a severe mental illness in producing a classic documentary film of his coping skills. But then we discovered that the better way of doing this was through an educational DVD. This way people living with a mental illness and the people close to them could use it as a tool to understand how Mike has become the human being he is today.

The web site is still there after two years of gathering information like blogs, videocast and movie episodes. Altogether, hundreds of articles have been written, 17 movie episodes and 29 videocast episodes. We are very proud of all these interviews. The technology we use to produce these episodes has considerably gotten better since 2006. It is now possible to broadcast live Mike’s presentations on the web through the Mogulus Network. We are very excited about this because of the many possibilities that live broadcasting gives to Midacom.

And what about Mike’s dream of speaking in front of large audiences?

This objective was also there from day 1. I think that it is more alive now than ever before. Mike has continued to present to audiences in the greater Montreal area. He is not only doing a better job as a presenter but he is also getting more and more attention from mainstream media. Mike was part of The Globe and Mail‘s recent special coverage of people living with a mental illness across Canada. He was also interviewed by CTV News-Montreal in a 3 minute report that was aired just before Christmas. Both were great successes and he got recognition and praise for his perseverance and dedication.

Dear Mike, I am very proud of your involvement in this project. You are a model not only for those that suffer from a mental illness but to everyone that searches for there own light. You give hope to those that need it the most. Continue on this path and all shall be well. Long live Mike’s Story.

Daniel Gervais
Film Director
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-12-24T16:02:52-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/eedf940ebd314ed584d05a770bbe1cea-48.html#unique-entry-id-48http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/eedf940ebd314ed584d05a770bbe1cea-48.html#unique-entry-id-48

December has always been a challenging month for me. Lots of extra things to do, parties, late nights, irregular sleep schedule, get togethers with family and the overall anxiety which revolves around the holidays. It is a time for me to be extra careful with the energy that I do have and choose wisely what I will do with it.

For me, it is also a time of reflexion on what has happened in the past year and to say "Thank you" to all the people, organizations, institutions, family members, friends, acquaintances, etc. who have helped me throughout the year. I know that without their support, I would not make it through. The time and effort they devote to being there for me means a great deal and I am very grateful.

Bonnie, Chelsie and I would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with health, love, enjoyment and peace.

Mike Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-12-14T09:05:54-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a88cd7237bac9b872a998eb8ef185f0d-46.html#unique-entry-id-46http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a88cd7237bac9b872a998eb8ef185f0d-46.html#unique-entry-id-46

On Wednesday November 19, 2008 I was one of the guest speakers at the 9th Annual Symposium on Research and Quality of Care for St. Mary's Hospital in Montreal which took place at The Ruby Foo's hotel. Present were about 120 medical professionals from St. Mary's Hospital and from other hospitals in Montreal. I was asked to speak about the patient's perspective. I only had 30 minutes to speak and answer questions so I had to keep it short.

I started by showing 3 chapters from The 80/20 Project DVD:

Chapter 4 Building a support network
Chapter 8 Learning from relapses
Chapter 19 My employer and my illness

The following were the points I tried to make:

1) Treat me as a human being, it's not just medication that I need

2) In Chapter 19 “Dave” refuses a promotion in order to gain something else later, medical professionals need to help me with that

3) The importance of community organizations and how they helped me

4) People have to organize their lives in order to be and stay stable and that has nothing to do with medication

5) Medical teams don't always take time to help patients with organizing their lives

6) Take time to focus on other aspects of a patient's life

7) Educate medical staff on other aspects of patient not just the medical aspects

8) For me, Medication is 20% everything else is 80% and medical professionals can help me with this 80%

9) In order to stay well, I need the 80/20 but I need help from medical professionals to apply it

10) Everyone around me helped me apply the 80/20

11) I am aware of your reality (as medical professionals). The interventions you do with people you see in crisis, medication is often more important than when they are stable. Once they are stable and you see them as out patients, this is when the 80/20 applies.

Once again, thank you St. Mary's Hospital and to the organizing committee of the 9th Annual Symposium on Research and Quality of Care for giving me this opportunity.

Mike Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-12-02T13:46:59-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a3cbc17c3efdf27581f93b4f37817eeb-45.html#unique-entry-id-45http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a3cbc17c3efdf27581f93b4f37817eeb-45.html#unique-entry-id-45

In my work environment I often deal with people who are having mental difficulties. What I have noticed is that in general, my co-workers are less and less resistant to consulting a professional in the mental health field. We are fortunate to have an employee help program, free of charge. If we are to give everyone a fair chance at life we all must realize that most of the stereotypes are kept alive by the co-workers. The boss is often sitting in an office somewhere. Furthermore your boss hired you; he or she was willing to give you a chance. Now if all the co-workers could do the same we would have taken a great step forward. People with a mental illness have a lot to teach us all. We must all stop and listen. I have learned a lot about mental illness through my brother Mike. In turn I am applying what I have learned to try to help others in my workplace. I am involved with my union at work at the executive level and I now help others by assisting them in their battles to be respected and accepted on all levels. I have often heard one co-worker judge that another co-worker is not really sick and is just faking in order to get some time off. I always respond that they should quit their job and should work as a doctor if they are qualified to make medical diagnoses. No doctor will knowingly diagnose a mental illness just so that the patient can get some time off work. This is considered fraud on the part of the doctor. He or she can loose their license to practice medicine. I don't know of a doctor who would take that chance when he or she has nothing to gain. Think about it!

It is up to every one to intervene and insist on respect and acceptance of all people in the work place. As of 2006 in Quebec, the law dictates that employers must provide an environment of work which is free of all forms of harassment or discrimination. The law is placing the responsibility on the employers to ensure that everyone is valued and respected by all. Sometimes we need to set one example and everyone else just kind of "gets it" after that. Unfortunately in some cases recourse is the only option left to correct the situation.

Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-11-16T18:35:21-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a3befecbbe2537c6886426055a7cd2e4-44.html#unique-entry-id-44http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a3befecbbe2537c6886426055a7cd2e4-44.html#unique-entry-id-44

I guess society is not yet comfortable with mental illness in the work place although some advances have been made. There is a lot of education to be done. I truly believe that until someone is exposed to some kind of mental illness whether it is themselves or a close one, they will never be at ease. In the past many causes have had to fight their way in the work force. I am thinking of cancer, aids, hepatitis A, B, C, and I am sure there are many others. The stereotypes that are attached to these illnesses only start to disappear when individuals start to be educated about the facts surrounding the illness and the fact that it is not contagious. Conclusion = FIRST PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW THAT THEY THEMSELVES ARE NOT AT RISK OF ANY KIND.

Next we have to talk about the media. Media is only interested in the ratings or the sale of their papers; in other words, the bottom line which is MONEY. In order to do this they need sensationalism. Notice how the reporter always says if the accused has a history of mental illness but fails to report his level of cholesterol or even blood pressure. Very few crimes are committed by people with a mental illness. Most often they will most likely hurt themselves rather than others. Notice how reporters also fail to say when the last episode of the illness was or if the illness had anything at all to do with the crime. Example: fraud is the crime and bi-polar is the illness, one has probably nothing to do with the other yet it is reported. Results on society are that people in general associate all that is bad with mental illness. The media is a powerful tool that when not used responsibly can cause a lot of damage. Hollywood would never have produced a movie such as "A BEAUTIFUL MIND" just 20 years earlier. When I see this I am encouraged and hopeful that one day soon everyone will be at ease with mental illness and it will be integrated in our society and the work place also. Let’s not forget that it is not so long ago that we would lock up all the "Crazy" people and throw away the key.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-11-10T17:50:58-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/6924d2967405d84c7fe3254e90246eca-43.html#unique-entry-id-43http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/6924d2967405d84c7fe3254e90246eca-43.html#unique-entry-id-43


This approach to life has brought me to places I only dreamed of. I have great memories of life experiences and met some awesome people over the years.

All this is true but "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get” (from the movie Forest Gump). There have also been times in my life when things have not been so great. In those times I choose to get help. Talking to a therapist is always a great help for me. Good friends and family are part of my personal support network. We all have limited knowledge of something or other. No one knows it all.

Keep in mind that I am not a professional in the mental health field. Life is too short to go through the motions. Only you and a professional can determine if and what kind of help would be beneficial for you.

Everyone has the right to be and feel happy at least some of the time. This is what I wish for everyone. I hope you reach out in order to find the recipe to create your own happiness.

Good Luck and Never Give Up.
Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-11-03T16:15:41-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/84dae2c4c76cc8e50f6387f61277979b-42.html#unique-entry-id-42http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/84dae2c4c76cc8e50f6387f61277979b-42.html#unique-entry-id-42

Every one of us is responsible for ourselves. We go through life going through the motions or we choose to take life by the horns. We are all faced with decisions that dictate the paths we choose to travel.

My dad passed away when I was 17 years old (my brother Mike was 13). He had worked very hard to provide for his family. Unfortunately he was struck down by cancer at the young age of 53. The passing of my dad made me realize that we are mortal and our time on this earth is limited. Life is short. There are so many ambitions and possibilities but so little time. It was like a big light went on in my head.

One of the most important decisions in my life was to choose to live life to the fullest everyday. I love to travel, I have parachuted, I've been white water rafting (even though I could not swim at the time) and much more. I am always ready to have a good time. I try to take advantage of any opportunity to do something different. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I am not a party pooper.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-10-26T10:06:17-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ba4b323b92e7eaa32078ed9b03c6b1cc-41.html#unique-entry-id-41http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ba4b323b92e7eaa32078ed9b03c6b1cc-41.html#unique-entry-id-41


For me, this is an easy answer - of course I would. If I didn't say that, I would be quite the hypocrite! On my second date with my now wife, I decided not to wait to tell her about my bipolar disorder. In my mind, it was either going to be a limitation for her or not, and I thought it best for both of us to know that right away. Lucky for me, she simply asked many smart questions, did her own research, and decided that it wasn't going to stop her in pursuing a relationship with me.

Had the tables been turned, whether I had an illness or not, I would have reacted the same way as her. I would have asked lots of questions and researched the topic, in order to gain a real understanding of the illness, the side effects of the medications, how well it was all being managed, etc. My choices from that point on, as with her choice, would be governed far more by how it was all being handled than by fear of the illness itself.

I should say this, however: if she had ultimately decided that it was too scary for her that I may have a full relapse, or worse, I would have understood and felt no ill will towards her. In fact, I would have appreciated her honesty with both herself and me if that was how she felt. Living with someone who suffers from ANY chronic illness - be it back pain, bipolar disorder, diabetes or migraines - is not easy. Not everyone can handle such a reality when it lands in their lap, and not everyone can or should choose it knowingly.

Again, it all comes down to open communication and decisions based on understanding and awareness.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-10-19T12:28:15-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f50673bd0faf634c71881cc36d263df6-40.html#unique-entry-id-40http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f50673bd0faf634c71881cc36d263df6-40.html#unique-entry-id-40

I do not want to seem self-righteous, but the truth is that I don't believe I have ever used my illness as an excuse. The opposite was true for a long time: I tried way too hard for too long to work through what was later understood to be full-bore clinical depression, hypo-mania and mania. I wish I could have stopped myself then and accepted my illness so that I could get the help needed. I am this way for the simple reason that I grew up under a father who believed in the power of what we can do vs. what we can't; he didn't allow excuses of any kind - only reasons. Also, I grew up with a major heart defect that ultimately required open heart surgery when I was 13. These were formative experiences that focused my attention on what I was lucky to have, and to be able to do, rather than what I couldn't do and why.

Again, I am certainly not trying to suggest that this is a better way or the only way to be. We all have our reasons for why we approach life, or a certain challenge, in the way we do. What I would like to suggest, though, is that it can be dangerous to use your illness as an excuse or fall into the trap of self-fulfilling prophecies with respect to stigmas, misunderstandings and taboos. Doing so may stall you in your recovery efforts and, worse yet; you may lose the confidence of your family, friends and co-workers. Once you lose that confidence, it can be very hard to get it back, even if you really need and deserve it. However, if you try to avoid using your illness as an excuse, then the people in your life will believe you when you say "I can't" or "I can't right now".

Sometimes, stopping and resting can be the most important thing you can do to maintain your control over your illness. You need the support of others in that simple act as much as in anything else. In the end, it all comes down to knowing your illness inside and out, and being honest with yourself.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comWork2008-10-05T09:45:48-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/56704139db52dbadb98b307713391216-39.html#unique-entry-id-39http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/56704139db52dbadb98b307713391216-39.html#unique-entry-id-39

The picture is clear. We as a society can no longer hide from these numbers. 55% of all salary insurance claims are directly related to mental health and one in 5 people will be affected by mental illness in their lifetime. At this rate it won't take long before everyone is directly exposed to mental illness in the workplace and in their private lives.

Major social and cultural change that we are all trying to generate is one of the reasons that I am so very proud of Mike and all the work he does in trying to educate others about mental illness. I myself am very lucky to be a part of this revolution or known better as the "RECOVERY MOVEMENT". I assure you that I speak about mental illness every time it is appropriate.

To all I ask: HOW DOES ONE EAT AN ELEPHANT?
Answer: ONE BITE AT A TIME.

To all I ask: HOW DO WE EDUCATE SOCIETY ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS?
Answer: ONE PERSON AT A TIME.

To all involved in this revolution or "RECOVERY MOVEMENT", keep up the great work. It is all for a great cause.

To all, have a great day and keep well.

Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comWork2008-10-05T09:31:29-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d8f642980af7d37d89ebf5c149fa7b79-38.html#unique-entry-id-38http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d8f642980af7d37d89ebf5c149fa7b79-38.html#unique-entry-id-38

It is human nature to fear what we do not know and sometimes the fear is so great that we may appear uninterested. In my experience, sometimes it is best to let people come to you whenever they are ready. Unfortunately for some people this day never comes. It really comes down to picking your battles very carefully. Only invest the energy that you can afford to burn on teaching others about mental illness.

As far as work environments are concerned. Recent studies done by insurance companies reveal that 55% of all salary insurance claims were directly related to mental health, whether it be a temporary diagnosis or not. This number is rising fast. What a shockwave this is sending in the industry. I would not at all be surprised if the insurance companies soon begin to demand that employers start educating their staff on how to prevent all preventable episodes of illness especially mental illness. We all understand that this is a numbers game and the motivating factor behind these studies is purely economical. Nevertheless I challenge all insurance companies to invest in education and prevention of mental illness in the workplace. I am convinced that it will be a very profitable investment in the long run.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-09-27T13:49:38-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/445d46cb60380bd3eb49c1b519cc8a6f-37.html#unique-entry-id-37http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/445d46cb60380bd3eb49c1b519cc8a6f-37.html#unique-entry-id-37

On Friday September 19th 2008 was the first time I assisted a complete presentation of The 80/20 Project. It took place at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Allen Memorial Institute, and by video conference at the Montreal General Hospital. It was quite something to see some doctors and nurses who worked with Mike over the years, sitting in the audience and listening attentively to every word that Mike had to say. Mike started by saying that it was the first time he had come there to see so many professionals and not have come in through the emergency doors. That statement brought some giggles from the audience and some memories that I hadn’t thought of for many years.

Mike’s Story and The 80/20 Project are really based on Mike’s experience as a person with a mental illness in the system for over 25 years. The principal message to the professionals in the audience both at the Allen Memorial Institute and the Montreal General Hospital was to treat people living with a mental illness with dignity and respect. Mike told everyone to just listen to them and try to consider their wishes when working with them. What professionals learn in school combined with someone like Mike who has been on the receiving end of the services makes for a great combination to improve all services offered to people with mental illness. The main message of the 80/20 project is that 20% is the right medication (an essential foundation to recovery). However 80% is the rest of the elements that make up our lives and how we choose to manage them. People living with a mental illness ARE WHOLE PEOPLE and should be treated as such. A lot of what Mike talks about in the 80/20 project does not only apply to people with mental illness but also to anyone who wants to improve the quality of their lives. Let us never forget that 1 in 5 Canadians will be touched by mental illness in their lifetime.

As for myself, I have always believed that Mike had the potential to achieve all his goals with a lot of hard work, perseverance and never giving up. On Friday September 19th, as I watched Mike doing his presentation, I couldn’t help feeling proud to be Mike’s sister. Proud to think that at times in the past there didn’t seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel and now he was educating the same professionals who helped him. I am also thankful for having traveled Mike’s journey with him because today I am a better person for it. My knowledge of mental illness is a great help in my personal life. Mike has become part of my support team in times of personal turmoil. Thank you bro for your unconditional support and contribution both personally and on behalf of the whole community. You have become an inspiration to me and many others you have met and will meet along your path of life. Heroes come from all walks of life. Way to go bro!!!!

Continued Success with The 80/20 Project.
Keep Up Your Great Work!
Keep on Fulfilling Your Dreams!!

Unconditional Love Always
Your Proud Sis
Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-09-12T09:19:24-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3c99406d7727dc85059f55c60ed93d32-36.html#unique-entry-id-36http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3c99406d7727dc85059f55c60ed93d32-36.html#unique-entry-id-36

To my dear son Mike,

As your mother and after all that we have been through, I could hardly believe the success you have created and all you have achieved in your life that it seems like a dream to me. You have a beautiful 5 year old daughter who is so full of spunk that when she speaks she sometimes sounds like an adult. When I look at her you can’t imagine how happy I am.

I could hardly believe that after all you have been through that you would one day arrive at this point. You have a wonderful wife who loves you. Your daughter Chelsie is like a beautiful flower and may God bless her always. You own your own home and you are living a “normal” life like other friends of yours.

With all that the whole family has been through I would have never imagined that you could arrive at this point. We all hope that with the grace of God you will continue to do well, as you are now, with us family members and with your own family.

May God bless you in every step that you take. This is what I wish for you as your mother.

Unconditional Love Always
Your Mother,
Margherita

(This letter was translated from Italian to English by Carmy Santoro)
]]>mike@mikesstory.comAwards2008-09-03T10:11:39-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/32fc759a7d4bd5dcefa4a134825ae4ae-35.html#unique-entry-id-35http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/32fc759a7d4bd5dcefa4a134825ae4ae-35.html#unique-entry-id-35
Shanda Davis, Executive Director of the BCIFF Film Festival and Daniel Gervais of Midacom.

In the last few months, The 80/20 Project has benefited from a few awards worth to be mentioned. First of all, the film was selected to participate in the Bayou City Inspirational Film Festival in Houston Texas, in the Documentary category in competition with many others films from around the world. Daniel Gervais, the film Director was present at the festival that was held from August 7th through the 9th and came back very satisfied with the results. Over 150 films were shown in a variety of categories. The 80/20 project received an Honorable Mention on Mike Santoro’s original standpoint in the way he deals with his mental illness. For more information you can visit the festival’s site at www.bciff.com

Secondly, in June 2008 the film was awarded a prestigious Honorable Mention award from The Accolade Film Awards in La Jolla, California which recognized Mike’s unique vision on living and coping with a severe mental illness. In winning this award, The 80/20 Project joins the rank of other high-profile winners and receives the recognition it deserves. For more information you can visit the festival’s site at www.accoladecompetition.org/film

When we first started this project, our expectations were high and numerous. Mike wanted to fulfill his dream of talking to large audiences and give hope to people living with a severe mental illness. In every film festival that we participate, Mike’s vision and unique way in dealing with his illness keeps popping out. We must say that our goals are being fulfilled one by one. All it takes is perseverance and dedication and of course, never giving up.

For more information on Mike’s Story, please visit www.MikesStory.com

Productions Midacom Inc.
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-08-25T20:59:00-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ec8e7a662b7a8925956f065c68378ba4-34.html#unique-entry-id-34http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ec8e7a662b7a8925956f065c68378ba4-34.html#unique-entry-id-34

A Mental Health Discussion at M.U.C.S.
BREAKING FREE OF ISOLATION
An Evening Discussion with
Mike Santoro from www.mikesstory.com
and
Sylvia Smith from AMI-Quebec

The Montreal Urban Community Sustainment Project is dedicated to fighting oppression in all its forms. We are proud to break the bonds of isolation surrounding mental health and subjects falsely considered as taboos to society. As such we hope to engage in a lively and supportive discussion with Mike Santoro and Sylvia Smith. There experiences and knowledge will help initiate conversation around mental health and the many channels of managing it. The discussion will bring to light challenges and experiences faced by individuals living with a mental illness as well as anyone interested in being apart of such an enriching conversation. It is our hope that through dialogue and the sharing of ideas, we can empower each other by offering support. The Montreal Urban Community Sustainment Project is honored by Mike and Sylvia’s presence at their evening discussion and we welcome everyone to attend. The event has been scheduled to take place on Wednesday August 27th, 2008 from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Guests are encouraged to stay for dinner and enjoy a vegan meal prepared in our dining coop (a small donation for the meal would be greatly appreciated). For more information please email us at naira@muc.ca or give us a call at 514-312-7074.

Nairra Tariq
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-08-12T20:23:20-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a51ba3d02467ee67e3e27acc19e550f6-33.html#unique-entry-id-33http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a51ba3d02467ee67e3e27acc19e550f6-33.html#unique-entry-id-33

I love playing with my Daddy. I like when we play Junior Monopoly together because I love my Daddy. I also like playing “Hello Hello”. This is a game my Daddy made up to play after I was born. There are 2 people or kids that can play. You shine 2 flashlights at the ceiling and one light has to follow the other light or they can play “Hiding Go Seek Hello Hello”.

I also like playing Sardines with Daddy. This is a fish memory game because there are sardine cards to play. I think my Daddy is special because I love my Daddy. I also like pranking my Daddy. I love when we watch Prank Patrol together.

Chelsie Santoro
5 years old
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-08-04T11:34:19-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/9b793450c4bcafcbd4ce9e9a98c0d5fe-32.html#unique-entry-id-32http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/9b793450c4bcafcbd4ce9e9a98c0d5fe-32.html#unique-entry-id-32

Hello everyone,

It is very easy for me to talk about mental illness. Often I will provoke a discussion in order to address the issues. We must talk about it as much as we can in order to demystify the taboos.

I am Mike's sister and have been his number one fan and supporter since day one of his diagnosis. I am extremely vocal about defending the rights of people with mental illness and breaking down the stereotypes that surround them.

PEOPLE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS ARE MUCH MORE THAN THEIR ILLNESS. The road to recovery is better traveled in great numbers.

To all, have a great day!!!
Carmy Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-07-27T22:57:43-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2e847938193e54ae1a720f4e4480195a-31.html#unique-entry-id-31http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2e847938193e54ae1a720f4e4480195a-31.html#unique-entry-id-31

People are always amazed when I tell them I have a mental illness. They will often say "I would have never known if you wouldn't have told me". I just love when this happens. I love to feel the state of amazement from that person at that time. This for me is one of the greatest ways to help eliminate stigma, misconceptions and discrimination against people with mental illnesses. By being in front of such a person and demonstrating to them live, in person, in front of them, that I am a human being just like everyone else and like themselves, I am often able to give them a true example of the opposite of what they were taught, what they heard or the stereotypes of what a person with a mental illness is "supposed" to look and be like.

Mike Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comAwards2008-07-14T09:35:13-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/645eb893f429120badec22e10b1333fc-30.html#unique-entry-id-30http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/645eb893f429120badec22e10b1333fc-30.html#unique-entry-id-30

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE 80/20 Project wins Accolade Competition

La Jolla, California, June 20, 2008 - The 80/20 Project, a Zestemedia & Midacom co-production from Montreal, Canada, has won a prestigious Honorable Mention from The Accolade Competition. The award was given for the film’s unique vision on living and coping with a severe mental illness.
"I am extremely honored and humbled by this award. I would like to thank the actors and everybody involved for their precious contribution" Mike Santoro/ writer

The Accolade recognizes film, television, and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. Information about The Accolade and a list of recent winners can be found at www.theaccolade.net.

In winning an Accolade, Zestemedia & Midacom joins the ranks of other High-profile winners of this internationally respected award. Thomas Baker, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade, has this to say about the latest winners, "The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptionally high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve."

For more information, please visit the Mike’s Story web site at www.mikesstory.com.


]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-07-05T12:19:02-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/68f9ac92b637c30c5da5a2632ec3366f-29.html#unique-entry-id-29http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/68f9ac92b637c30c5da5a2632ec3366f-29.html#unique-entry-id-29

I am not good at expressing myself in words, but this event deserves a high five, good job and keep up the good work. You might ask what the event was. Well I'll tell you in a few words. It was on the 31st of May 2008 in Knowlton, Quebec where my brother Mike Santoro gave another one of his numerous conferences about his mental illness. It was the first time which I assisted in person and was very impressed the way he spoke in front of a group of about 75 people. Everyone was very attentive and when it was time to ask questions, lots of hands went up because they wanted either to ask more questions or to comment on a particular part of the conference which interested them. Most of the people present there either had a mental illness themselves or knew someone who had one. For Mike it started as something negative but now it has blossomed into a positive energy and he is trying to reach out to as many people as possible to try to make them understand and cope with their illness so they can live a "normal life". That is all for now. So BRO, once again HIGH FIVE, GOOD JOB, AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

Your big sis,
Terry Giannuzzi
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-06-28T20:18:46-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/54ce2228129527deb3c7add41b533a4d-28.html#unique-entry-id-28http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/54ce2228129527deb3c7add41b533a4d-28.html#unique-entry-id-28

THE FUTURE WHEN BEING IN THE FLOW OF LIFE

The lesson I have learned so far is that I am always in recovery. It is there in the back of my mind and also a part of daily life now and in the future. It does not mean for me to expect less from my life but to be more in charge when I have setbacks. Before when I had a relapse I would have asked for more help when I felt more anxious, but now I make an appointment with myself at my kitchen table in order to face the relapse and find a solution.

I now accept that the future can bring good experiences compared to before when the future was seen as a time full of problematic events accompanied by low self-esteem and low energy levels. It is not that I take for granted my well being but I do look forward to developing my involvement and trying to get closer and closer to the real meaning of my life. I am looking for more than to just “make do” and be on the margins of society. I want to be involved in this project of life just as any other person.

In a nutshell if I want to describe what happened when I started regaining meaning in my life, my first focus was to bring back balance back into my life. I developed my self confidence with insights and improved my interactions with others. The process means to be in this flow of life with my full energy. Being responsible for my life situation is the best goal I can ever have in life.

Sylvie Albert
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-06-20T08:42:48-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/26ddd1750f1e6f985c7136638aef1fab-27.html#unique-entry-id-27http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/26ddd1750f1e6f985c7136638aef1fab-27.html#unique-entry-id-27

SINCE MY EARLY FORTIES

My recovery is not just for myself and for my life-I also want to help create a better environment in which others can explore the meaning of mental illness in their own lives. Since I have more energy living a meaningful life I wish all patients would also have an opportunity to fulfill their goal. Society has a more important role to play on acknowledging patients’ roles in all spheres of activities as full time citizens and should encourage them.

When I realized that the person in charge (the seeking mind in me) was able to take more decisions than I thought, I noticed that well being became concrete and not just another unattainable goal. Nevertheless there is no magic because I do have to make deals with myself; to be in charge of my failures and not making others responsible for them. It helps me to focus on improving my life conditions. The payoff is that people tell me I adapt, that I am more flexible. It is the same goal that they have with so called normal life.

However, my achievements are never a done deal because I continuously need to fine tune my attitude toward my life as if it was a precious gem. What I mean is that there is no guarantee that I will regain my full potential but the goal is to be part of the adventure as an actor, not a spectator. I don’t want to put a mask and pretend I have recovered 100% of my mental health and there is a cure out there. Any road I take will be a bumpy road and this is the blessing; I am resilient enough to navigate on this road and I will find ways to accept the bumps and welcome challenges.
(Part 3 to be continued next week...)

Sylvie Albert

]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-06-13T17:50:19-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/99301ea25d06eb9a437b75e8f8c43cdb-26.html#unique-entry-id-26http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/99301ea25d06eb9a437b75e8f8c43cdb-26.html#unique-entry-id-26

The main purpose for me is to regain the meaning of my life. It is a complex process but nonetheless it is achievable. When I started regaining hope (with treatments and support) I realized there was more to life than being stable or compliant. Yes it was a cornerstone in improving my functioning when I accepted to be treated but well being is more complex than a cure recipe.

Paradoxically I really had to put myself in a context where I was on the same level as other citizens and not in a protected environment where sick people survive (are put). It is always a challenge because I face my own limits on one hand and I have to deal with prejudices and stigmas in society on the other.

SINCE 1998

I want to feel like a full time citizen and so I get involved in my activities with a resilient attitude. With this frame of mind I can appreciate my participation rather than feel overwhelmed with what is unfair or detrimental to people with a mental disorder. In my early forties I became ready to take on a more complete role in society when I realized I could improve my relationships with other people and that there is no shame in having a mental disorder. I started to go to support groups at AMI-Quebec and get together meetings with other patients in the late 90’s. I learned from these discussions that recovery works in so far as I participate in the process of well-being. There is a genuine approach according to my values.

I don’t believe in preachers or therapists who tell me that a couple of intensive therapy week-ends or a program of activities will resolve a mental health disorder. There is no quick fix but I do believe I can deepen my life values to maximize my chances to feel a part of the world around me just as other people with no mental disorder diagnosis do.
(Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Sylvie Albert
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-06-08T08:27:55-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f444f9a0c0f1f307c74f018801ce395b-25.html#unique-entry-id-25http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f444f9a0c0f1f307c74f018801ce395b-25.html#unique-entry-id-25
"A REASON TO HOPE - A MEANS TO COPE"

I was very pleased with the recent presentation of Mike's Story at the Lac Brome Community Center. There were about 75 people who came to hear him. Instead of an ordinary guy like Mike, I had been looking for a 'big name' to come and do a presentation for a long time. After doing some research I realized that having a celebrity come to Knowlton would be far too expensive, so I had pretty much given up the idea - but I couldn't let it go completely.

I had already heard about Mike Santoro but didn't know if he did presentations so I phoned him at AMI-Quebec where he worked, and asked him. When he answered "Yes", I told him I was looking for a real person with a real mental illness. I had no idea how Mike would react to this kind of request, but his response was "That's me!"

That first conversation led to many more emails and phone calls. We were becoming friends even before we actually met. I met Mike for the first time the morning of the presentation and it was like we were already fast friends. Mike and I realized that we were on the same page, working for the same cause. We had already both discovered that with effort, discipline, perseverance and taking responsibility anyone with a mental illness can have a good life - "A REASON TO HOPE. THE MEANS TO COPE."

So the date was set for Mike to come to present his 80/20 Project, the Community Center was booked and posters were made - but I had no idea yet how to pay for everything. My new philosophy was becoming "You don't ask, you don't know", and so I started asking. The first person I approached was a friend who was a partner in his own business. He was very happy to donate towards our event! He said that he gave to various charities, but he seldom knew how the money was being spent or if it was going where it was intended. It made him happy to give to something local and to know what the money was going to be used for.

This gave me the courage I needed to write letters requesting donations from some local organizations. I was overwhelmed, and still am, by the responses I received. One organization wrote, "Even if mental health is not our mission, the board of directors decided to make a donation because we find what Connections For Mental Health Inc. is doing is important, and somehow even touches our children." This was exciting!

Since the presentation I have received some very encouraging emails and phone calls:
"Mike was really interesting. You had a very good idea to do this!!!"

"You're to be congratulated for all of the work that you have put into the organizing of the day and your commitment to your cause."

"It was a wonderful afternoon in so many ways!! Congratulations!"

"It was a fabulous event and you should be very proud of your contribution to the local community and to the larger community of mental health development. I am pleased to have been included."

"Congratulations on a successful event and all the hard work you put into it. Mike's a very interesting fellow, and easy to admire, and I thank you for inviting me to the presentation, and wonderful refreshments."

"Hard work. Mike did a fabulous job and really hit home with the different issues. I found his message very inspiring. Standing up like he did in front of all those people can make you very vulnerable and I admire his courage for doing that. I wish him well."

"Everything went well, you should be proud."

These last two comments are from people I emailed invitations to, but couldn't come:

"I see that you are still working hard for a good cause, don't give up . . . "

"I heard your event read out today on CBC radio at 12:30 community announcements. Well done, on your hard work putting it together."

This event wouldn't have been possible without everyone's support. I thank everyone who helped to organize and those that came that day to help. A big thank you to all of you who came and also to Townshippers Association for their stamp of approval on this event, and to CIDI 99.1 radio for offering to tape the presentation, which they will air at a later date.

We were very happy to have the following community groups Prevention Suicide, Oasis Mental Health and Pavilion Foster in attendance presenting their services and distributed information pamphlets in English.

We are already planning something for the fall, watch the papers. Connections for Mental Health in Lac Brome is a community group that advocates and provides support for the population of Brome Missisquoi.

Be sure to check out Mike's web site at: www.MikesStory.com. You can also buy The 80/20 Project DVD directly through Mike's web site or from Linda Ransom at pleasantvalley@sympatico.ca or 450-243-0928.

Linda Ransom
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-05-23T09:11:44-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/929f76fc1590b7c6e026bbe2971dd22a-24.html#unique-entry-id-24http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/929f76fc1590b7c6e026bbe2971dd22a-24.html#unique-entry-id-24

I would like to take a moment to express my opinion on The 80/20 Project DVD. I found the information to be rather insightful and it covered everything I needed to help in the recovery process. During the introduction, we see old fashion methods of treating the mentally ill; thankfully I was diagnosed with a mental illness January 31, 2005, because the inhumane treatment of the past would have rendered me even more unstable. Also during the introduction, Mike mentions hope, and this coupled with the 80/20 philosophy; provide the underlying theme of the entire video. However, never lose hope no matter how low you feel because believe me, if you lose hope there is nothing for you to be grounded by, making you even lower and more lost. Hope alone will not do it and that is where the 80/20 concept comes into play; the ‘20’ percent is the medication, which most people who stopped their medication, I included, has had a relapse. The other ‘80’ percent involves the discipline of self control, avoiding drugs and alcohol, keeping your emotions in check, and also learning the warning signs of your particular mental illness.

In conclusion, your life does not end because you have a mental illness. Have hope, work hard, and you will be a better person for surviving and having learned to live with a mental illness. It is important to reaffirm and confirm your theories and thoughts with those of another person, and Mike does an excellent job of making you feel like he is talking just for you. Mike wants to help you, and that comes through in his sincere DVD. Watch as needed, and believe me it gets better every time.

Vince Antenucci
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2008-05-14T12:18:06-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/6355f14cd67ed8d6f1ee5026c010f4b3-23.html#unique-entry-id-23http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/6355f14cd67ed8d6f1ee5026c010f4b3-23.html#unique-entry-id-23

Dear Filmmaker / Artist,

We are pleased to inform you that your submission has been selected to screen at the 2008 Bayou City Inspirational Film Festival, August 7-9, 2008, Houston, Texas. We are excited about your project and commend you once again on your
outstanding efforts.Your project will be screening along with other selected submissions in your category at this year's festival. Winners in your category will be announced at the 2008 BCIFF Awards Banquet on the last night of the festival.

As a selected artist or filmmaker, you will receive one complimentary 2008 BCIFF VIP All Access Film Festival Pass that will allow you access to the opening night
extravaganza, seminars, workshops, film screenings, special platforms and the 2008 BCIFF Awards Banquet. Please see below details regarding your 2008 BCIFF VIP All Access Film Festival Pass.

You should be proud of your outstanding accomplishment and once again we are honored to have you included in this year’s screening. Thank you again for submitting your
project to the 2008 BCIFF. We look forward to seeing you at the festival.
Sincerely,

Shanda Davis
Executive Director
Bayou City Inspirational Film Festival
shanda@bciff.com or info@bciff.com
www.bciff.com
]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2008-05-09T08:47:44-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/cf04bf520ff498b31be50e02d6d63798-22.html#unique-entry-id-22http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/cf04bf520ff498b31be50e02d6d63798-22.html#unique-entry-id-22

News Release…For Immediate Release

Connections For Mental Health

A Reason to Hope - The Means to Cope

People with mental illness are people first and foremost. They to have dreams and hopes just like everyone else. Mental illness does not change who they are, just their ability to express it.

Living with a severe and persistent mental illness is a difficult thing to manage on a daily basis. Diagnosed with schizo-affective disorder for more than 20 years now, Mike has shown the way to others by surmounting many difficulties and by fulfilling one of his dreams of helping others with a mental illness.

He values his life and his work by serving as an example to others and his focus is always on never giving up. With the help of his family and friends, Mike has recently completed The 80/20 Project (80% hard work and 20% medication) a DVD about “Mike’s Story”. An educational DVD about some of Mike’s personal coping skills that have helped him to come to the place where he is today.

Hopefully, you will come out and meet Mike Santoro and to hear him in person. This wonderful, heartwarming, and very encouraging story of how Mike has come to terms with his own illness, and has turned it around for something positive.

Mike’s presentation is one to give hope and encouragement and some very important tools for those who suffer from mental illness and also some tips for caregivers. Mike will also be available after the presentation to share his insights and answer questions.

The 80/20 Project DVD will be on sale at the presentation.

Feel free to check out the web site www.MikesStory.com

Mike will be presenting his inspirational life story at the Lac Brome Community Center, 270 Victoria Street, Knowlton, Quebec J0E 1V0 on Saturday May 31, 2008 at 1:30 p.m.

Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

Mike’s philosophy is, “Giving up; isn’t an option.”

Source: Linda Ransom-Connections for mental health
Knowlton-450-243-0928 pleasantvalley@sympatico.ca
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-05-02T08:44:40-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/23c72fb6cc00ad7178164c1668d9d866-21.html#unique-entry-id-21http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/23c72fb6cc00ad7178164c1668d9d866-21.html#unique-entry-id-21


I would like to express a deep gratitude towards my life as I developed a different attitude by using some tools for anxiety. I discovered them at different stages of my recovery and they were useful on the road to getting well in the last 20 years of my life. The first one was a face-to-face communication with psychotherapists. I developed a lot of hope in these contacts through my thirties and my forties. These people were a sounding board for my anxious mind. They showed me the way to write in a constructive way. Filling charts to keep track of how to decrease my anxiety level, how to question my fears, changing scenarios about “not being able of” to “being responsible of”, and “taking control” of my life. When I was loosing control I was reaching for these tools over and over again.
A different attitude gave me a chance to challenge myself even more. I started coping better with new situations and I could see my pattern of anxiety coming back before I was overwhelmed with my fears. Before coming close to a dead end, I would question if my fears were real or were created in my mind. The hyperventilation and chest pains were real symptoms of my anxiety but my perceptions of these fears were a sign of over sensitivity compared to what happened in the reality.
Now I am traveling on a road that is much smoother. I learned through all these years that the one and only competition is with me. Tracking distorted thoughts, having realistic expectations and fine tuning my coping mechanisms with fitness activities and discussions groups. In one word it is by giving more help to me. This main aspect is never achieved but is always a process in my recovery. I always check that I re-involve my energy in daily life instead of withdrawing in my fears.
In a nutshell I suggest to anyone that is fighting with a mental illness to give themselves the chance to be in charge. This is the major task I have to accomplish each day and even if some days, it feels like taking 1 step forward and 2 steps back, the dignity is achieved because I tried this one step forward. I appreciate this (sometimes) only one situation in a day that will give me this extra self confidence and the rest of the day can be relatively acceptable even with setbacks. What is happening to you now can be the masterpiece of your life. Your road and my road are full of recoveries.

Sylvie Albert
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-04-22T09:16:13-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/c79a888292d955f060e9ee668c79fc1f-20.html#unique-entry-id-20http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/c79a888292d955f060e9ee668c79fc1f-20.html#unique-entry-id-20

I cannot believe that this April marks 10 years my wife Bonnie and I are married. They say time flies when you are having fun. I must have had lots of fun because I did not see the last 10 years go by. It almost seems like yesterday I was waiting near the front of the church while Bonnie nervously walked down the isle with her father to meet me so we could get married. I remember that moment so vividly. I had a huge smile on my face and could not wait to hold her hand. She looked amazing (and in my opinion, looks even better today as our love for each other has grown).
I have always said that marriage is a full time job. The more hours you put into it, the more you get paid. Bonnie and I have put huge amounts of hours working at our relationship and the pay is enormous. We have lots of respect, love, trust and care for each other. That is not to say that we never have or had rocky or difficult times. As we have gotten to know each other better over the last 10 years, we have grown so much closer together and as I like to say, the product of our love is our beautiful daughter and the loving home we provide for her.

Happy Anniversary Bonnie, I love you sooooo much.

Your husband,
Mike Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-04-13T12:00:48-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a9af81d32d69813d80555f3f7e9a98ad-19.html#unique-entry-id-19http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a9af81d32d69813d80555f3f7e9a98ad-19.html#unique-entry-id-19

When Daniel and I first decided we were going to work together to build MikesStory.com, I made a promise to him that I would do everything I needed to do in order to reach my goal and fulfill my dream. When I said everything, I meant EVERYTHING. For those who know me well, they know that I do not make many promises, but when I do, I keep them.

We have completed The 80/20 Project DVD and now more than ever, I am determined to do what it takes to talk about The 80/20 Project (my coping skills) across Canada, the United States and all over the world. My dream is to talk to large audiences about my coping skills. That dream is one step closer with the completion of The 80/20 Project DVD. Already we have sold many copies of the DVD and the positive feedback and encouragement coming from everywhere gives me the fuel I need to one day make my dream a reality.

Mike Santoro
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-04-02T14:22:46-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/84fee6b025faf94db93cb3a31bff842f-18.html#unique-entry-id-18http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/84fee6b025faf94db93cb3a31bff842f-18.html#unique-entry-id-18

My wife and I just celebrated our one-month wedding anniversary this past Saturday, and doing so gave us the chance to reflect on our wedding and honeymoon in February. Our year of planning for these big events was such fun, and the day itself was a magical time for us. We spent two weeks in Costa Rica for our honeymoon and had the time of our lives. Now, we are enjoying an enhanced depth of our love, our commitment and our sense of a future together – all rewards of our decision to marry.
And yet as I reflect on this story, I am also filled with gratitude for something entirely different. I am grateful that my bipolar disorder has been under control, through lithium and my lifestyle management efforts, since June 2005. This stability came only after 2 wild and destructive years of rapid cycling between depression and mania. I also feel fortunate that the careful management of my illness has allowed my bipolar to remain in the distant background. This has allowed me to enjoy my engagement, wedding and honeymoon to the fullest. I am painfully aware that had I experienced a sudden bout of depression or mania, my wedding day and honeymoon may have been ruined.
While I know I am fortunate, I am also encouraged by the simple fact that my bipolar has been tamed as a result of my choices. These choices include taking my lithium as prescribed, every day; tracking my sleep quality and hours per night; tracking my energy levels and minor illnesses to catch any potential trends; eating well and drinking in moderation; and speaking openly about my illness, as I am doing now.
My bipolar has been tamed so much that I don’t recall thinking about it on my wedding day. Not once. For someone who lost nearly 2 years, and much more, to the symptoms of bipolar disorder, that is a remarkable wedding gift.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-03-21T12:25:14-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/31e83e40939b3ce2ebfaf33af20b9c6b-17.html#unique-entry-id-17http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/31e83e40939b3ce2ebfaf33af20b9c6b-17.html#unique-entry-id-17

I often wonder what a life without Panic Disorder would be like. How different would I be? I remember years ago when I didn’t have anxiety and I remember myself as fun and outgoing. Today I am cautious and rather boring in my opinion.
I used to think that it was horrible, that I had become old before my time. Now I realize that it was just part of growing up and I was lucky in a way. I am not saying that Panic Disorder is fun or something everybody should go out and get. What I am saying is that when you are hit with a mental illness like that it makes you stop, take stock, and determine what’s important.
It makes you grow up and take care of your mental and physical health, something that most people ignore. As a result I changed my diet, take meds to keep the panic attacks in check, and work hard at maintaining a life that is as stress free as possible.
I try and find activities that are healthy and more importantly surround myself with people that are positive and supportive. As any person with a mental illness knows friends are very important, without them you truly would be lost. Whether it’s just an ear or a shoulder they lend, that outlet is something that is precious. Last but not least, I had to learn to not sweat the small stuff as they say.

Suzanne Robb
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2008-03-13T12:48:41-04:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/53626e5d226b462992e924113c5ac35c-16.html#unique-entry-id-16http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/53626e5d226b462992e924113c5ac35c-16.html#unique-entry-id-16


The launch of The 80/20 Project DVD took place on January 23, 2008 and for me, it was an amazing event. Months of planning went into organizing that evening and it was great to see that all that hard work paid off. It was a full house (there were about 90 people present) and the feeling in the room was indescribable. I was extremely nervous especially when the weather forecast called for -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit) that evening. Everyone had a great time and the feedback from everyone was very positive. Several people that evening told me the same thing, that if I was nervous it meant that I cared. I started off the night by saying that I must have cared a lot for this project because I was very nervous. One of the things that touched me greatly was the attentiveness everyone in the room had towards what was going on. It proved to me that people are very interested in Mike’s Story and willing to listen and learn more about mental illness and recovery.

I would like to thank all those who were present and who took time from their busy schedule to be there with me that evening. I would also like to thank those who showed their support for this project by purchasing The 80/20 Project DVD. You can show your support by purchasing The 80/20 Project DVD off this website.

Once again, thank you for all your support and I look forward to meeting many of you along my journey.

Mike Santoro]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-03-06T15:09:26-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2e13a8508654d22a67485110b3e5c1cd-15.html#unique-entry-id-15http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/2e13a8508654d22a67485110b3e5c1cd-15.html#unique-entry-id-15

I must have been in my early twenties one day when I bumped into Mike again. He was in front of me waiting to use the ATM machine at a financial institution. I recognized him right away but to be honest, I wasn’t sure if I should speak to him or not, since all the horrible things that were said about him suddenly resurfaced in my mind. At that point I had no choice since Mike recognized me. We pulled aside from the ATM line up where we were standing and started to talk. Keep in mind that I still was unaware that he had a mental illness. We exchanged telephone numbers and a week later he was over at my mom’s house accompanied by this girl he was seeing. A relationship that ended for Mike shortly after his girlfriend’s family was informed that Mike had a mental illness. As for the two of us, we remained in contact. He is today the cousin that I interact with the most. I only found out about his mental illness a few years back. We were both in the car together when he said: “Joe, you know I have a mental illness right”? To me, it was strange since he seemed just like everybody else. The next morning, I called my mother and informed her about Mike’s illness. We both felt terrible because of all the lies that were said in the past about Mike. The good thing was that we were finally enlightened and were able to defend Mike when people said that he was crazy. Today Mike is a true model for me. I always go to him for advice on anything I need. He is a terrific father and a lovable husband (so his wife says…LOL). We get together more often then ever and I hope that it will last forever. He has proven that mental illness can be won over. His passion is to tell the world about it. I am sure that Mike’s Story will affect many lives and change the face of mental illness for good. Mike, I wish you all the best. Writing this article brought back a few memories and a few tears as well; I am here for you whenever you need me just like you are always there for me. You are a true friend that I love so very much.

Joe Iafanti
February 23, 2008
]]>mike@mikesstory.comFamily2008-03-02T09:38:58-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d4e0fc573ea791f4bae0f79dce518e9d-14.html#unique-entry-id-14http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d4e0fc573ea791f4bae0f79dce518e9d-14.html#unique-entry-id-14

As cousins, Mike and I were often together when we were kids. I remember going over to his house and he would show me how to play with his video games. On other days, he and his mother would come over to our place. We would all have supper together. Most of the time we would pick up a bucket of Kentucky fried chicken and enjoy it with each others company. Mike being older than me, I always looked up to him then as I still do today. I remember the time that our cousins came to Canada from Italy. Mike took all of us out cruising into town in a luxurious car he had rented just for the occasion. He took us for ice cream as well. For a kid like me, it was simply the thrill of a lifetime. I still did not know at that point that Mike suffered from a mental illness. Along the way, we lost track of each other. I kept asking my mother, “Dove sta Mike” meaning “Where is Mike”? She had told me that Mike was very sick and had been in and out of the hospital. My mother having immigrated to Canada very young did not know much. People she knew had told her that Mike was a drug addict and that he had become a total junkie. Obviously the rumors spread and everyone spoke terribly about Mike. I was just a young boy and innocently believed all that was being said. I had also heard that he was so “into” the drugs that he had been placed in a recovery centre tied up in a bed in order not to be able to get his hands on more drugs. At one point, we were also told that my cousin had been possessed by the devil himself. Looking back today, I say to myself, “What were these people thinking”. The years went by and I had never heard about Mike anymore. (Part 2 to be continued next week...)

Joe Iafanti
February 23, 2008
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-02-19T16:17:26-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f71caef1fce74edaff7c8365c5d7f99c-13.html#unique-entry-id-13http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/f71caef1fce74edaff7c8365c5d7f99c-13.html#unique-entry-id-13

I think that we should give attention to any movement, effort or initiative that functions to improve the experience of those who fall ill with mental illness and of those in their support structure. Whether it is achieved through building a sense of community, generating awareness, tackling stigma or coaching consumers through the medical system, it is a great thing.
This 'recovery movement' seems to be doing a good job of helping consumers process and overcome their diagnoses, as well as providing a launching pad for their recovery. Talking about it more will only help to create more awareness for both the movement itself and why it started in the first place.
My efforts to volunteer as a speaker for AMI-Quebec and to contribute to Mikesstory.com are entirely for this purpose. I believe that the strongest voices available to advocate for mental illness are (and must continue to be) consumers who are living well in recovery. Those who have been down the dark path of depression, who have experienced the extremes of mania, the confusion and frustration of schizophrenia and the shock of stigma, have a deeper understanding of what living with mental illness truly means.
I would argue that we also have a clearer sense of what changes, in the health-care system and indeed in society, must take place before we will feel the same level of care and respect as our friends and family members who fall ill to a more ‘acceptable’ illness, like cancer.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-02-10T12:21:33-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a6af0d6ffe4fbf1c37c02cc2c5dc7efe-11.html#unique-entry-id-11http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/a6af0d6ffe4fbf1c37c02cc2c5dc7efe-11.html#unique-entry-id-11

Once I had taken the journey outlined in the first part of this article, I can honestly say that it was no longer hard for me to talk about my bipolar disorder to either friends or co-workers. This was a new and liberating place for me to be, especially considering that for the first several years of dealing with mental illness I barely spoke about it beyond those closest to me. Part of that was confusion and lack of knowledge; I didn't want to talk about something that I was still totally unfamiliar with.
Once I educated myself on bipolar specifically, and mental illness in general, I started to form the opinions that led to me speaking openly not only within my circle of friends and co-workers, but also publicly through AMI-Quebec and now on Mikesstory.com. I now find myself discussing it in much the same way I would the fact that I am engaged, that I am a skydiver or that I love 9-ball and play competitively - that is, I tell those who show interest in me and my life to that level, and/or those for whom the fact that I have bipolar is relevant. Otherwise, I don't.
I feel that this kind of openness is a major key, perhaps even the single most important element in progressing social attitudes toward mental illness to where they need to be, where they should be.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-02-05T15:13:33-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ff45a4722f9f2192f7076b2552ee4154-10.html#unique-entry-id-10http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/ff45a4722f9f2192f7076b2552ee4154-10.html#unique-entry-id-10

I would like to offer my experience in dealing with this difficult challenge.
At first, I really was uncomfortable in discussing or even revealing my illness. I was still trying to accept it for what it was, and come to terms with the reality that I couldn't beat it on my own. For me, as for many others with a mental illness, medication was necessary.
I learned some key lessons between the time my first symptoms appeared in 2002-03 and my return to balance and health in mid 2005. For me, it came down to two simple questions:

1) How do you think and feel about your illness specifically and mental illness in general?

2) How does the person you want to discuss it with feel and think about these topics?

The former is the really important one, because if you feel guilt, confusion, anger, stigma, etc. about your illness and you are misinformed, how can you possibly speak about it? That's where I was for a while, so naturally I couldn't / wouldn't talk openly about it.
The hardest part for me to learn was that even after I went through the long and difficult path to that healthy place of acceptance, knowledge, awareness and perspective, it still wasn't enough for everyone. Even though I saw my illness as in fact physical (a problem located in my brain), and I understood that the term 'mental illness' does not equate with 'emotional illness', it was clear that others may take ages to come to this realization, while some never will.
Those people may be your colleagues, your friends, or one of your family members. It is difficult, but it is beyond your control. In my case there is one or two in each of those groups.
I was encouraged to find that once I reached a solid foundation in my own thinking, most of the people that I spoke to about it came to a place of understanding. Most people know instinctively that social attitudes towards mental illness are archaic and narrow, and if not they are open to understanding this. They want to feel included in your experience, and understanding what you are dealing with is part of that.
So for the most part, it came down to me. Once I reached a healthy level of acceptance and spoke comfortably, knowledgeably and plainly about my illness, I saw that most of my listeners were eager and positive. The others, well, I just learned to accept their limitations and I live with the hope that as long as I remain consistent in my message, they may come around.
That has been my experience, and I hope it can help you in yours.

Be well,
Jason Finucan
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2008-01-30T10:36:39-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/bfcfefa76e2255ee6516a9e9f8a7bbd1-9.html#unique-entry-id-9http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/bfcfefa76e2255ee6516a9e9f8a7bbd1-9.html#unique-entry-id-9

The following is a card I received the night of The Official Launch of The 80/20 Project DVD...

Dear Mike,

It has been really neat getting to know you better through AMI-Quebec. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to contribute in a small way to your website. Your willingness too share your story will continue to inspire me as well. I have come to discover the person inside me that does not live in a box or with a label. This is a journey that many do not make and one that most “non-consumers” can’t appreciate. But it’s a gift that recovery gives us and the difference is that we enrich everyone by offering our gift openly.

With many great wishes for a life full of re-discovery and joy!

Sincerely,
Sylvia Smith
January 23, 2008
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2008-01-24T10:16:48-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d285c05ee430775fa547b16bd12ffdf0-8.html#unique-entry-id-8http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/d285c05ee430775fa547b16bd12ffdf0-8.html#unique-entry-id-8

For me, finding hope and a place to belong is the hardest thing right now. I think what most people don’t know is that there is a lot of fear while you are going through this illness. I feel like I don’t belong anywhere. I don’t have a place right now. I know that my family loves me very much but I don’t know where I fit in. So what helps me right now is having gotten involved with AMI-Quebec. I have a purpose in the morning. When I’m there, it feels natural and I’m like everyone else. I have a place to belong and a purpose to live.

Connie Di Nardo
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2008-01-07T10:58:01-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/370ab64da006ac89ea245a8f0747e61e-7.html#unique-entry-id-7http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/370ab64da006ac89ea245a8f0747e61e-7.html#unique-entry-id-7

Hi Everyone,

After a lot of hard work it is finally here!!!

Daniel Gervais and I am very excited to invite you to the official launch of The 80/20 Project Educational DVD, which will be held on Wednesday January 23, 2008 at 6:00 pm till about 9:00 pm at Centre St-Pierre de Montreal, 1212 Panet Street, Montreal, Quebec, H2L 2Y7. Walking distance from Metro Beaudry and parking available next to building for a reasonable cost.

That night, you will be the first to see the official trailer of The 80/20 Project Educational DVD, bloopers, some chapters from The 80/20 Project DVD and several other surprises await you. You will also have the opportunity to meet the actors who took part in the making of this DVD and have a chance to ask any question you may have.

That night, individuals will be able to purchase The 80/20 Project DVD at the Special Launch Price of $24.95 plus applicable taxes. Cash or cheques accepted. (Institution price: $295.00 plus applicable taxes).

We will be honored to have you among us. Light snacks and beverages will be served.

If you are interested in attending, please e-mail me no later than Friday January 11 by using the “Contact Us” button on the left of this page. Please indicate the names of the people coming and their e-mail address.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Mike Santoro
www.MikesStory.com
]]>mike@mikesstory.comActivities2007-12-21T13:38:38-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/667eeb1b51e7ef756d28b0b38ba5a8f8-6.html#unique-entry-id-6http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/667eeb1b51e7ef756d28b0b38ba5a8f8-6.html#unique-entry-id-6

This is the time of year when I usually look back at the last 12 months and try to think of all the things that have happened. I look at what I have accomplished and take the time to appreciate what I have and the good people around me. This year has definitely been a big one; I was one of the faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week across Canada, Daniel and I started and completed The 80/20 Project Educational DVD which will be on sale on MikesStory.com starting in January 2008, we produced many videocasts, movie episodes, podcasts and wrote many articles for MikesStory.com, I have done many presentations to people suffering from a mental illness, family members, siblings, doctors, nurses, students, different professionals, etc. etc. I have done interviews with the media, recorded public service announcements, been recorded via podcast for another website, and the list goes on and on. It is great to hear people tell me how Mike's Story has helped them and/or impacted their lives. For me, this means that all the endless hours I am putting into this project is really having a positive impact on many people and that is what gives me the strength to continue.

I would like to wish everyone a Happy Holiday Season and say thank you for your support and encouragement. Take good care and take the time to enjoy this time of the year with those you love.

Mike
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2007-11-12T21:38:01-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/747fac19c7ab053e797821ac2daf9650-5.html#unique-entry-id-5http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/747fac19c7ab053e797821ac2daf9650-5.html#unique-entry-id-5

I have lots of "To Do Lists". A To Do List for the repairs needed on the house, To Do List for January, February, March, April, May, etc, etc, To Do List of people to see to have coffee with, To Do List to get house ready for winter, To Do List to get house ready for summer, To Do List for things I need to get done at work, To Do List for things I need to speak to my wife about, To Do List for things I would like to do with my daughter, and the To Do Lists go on and on. This is great because it frees up my mind since everything is written down and I do not have to continually think about all the things I need to get done. The problem is that these To Do Lists can grow to be out of control (in size) and become unrealistic. I sometimes find myself spending lots of time "managing" these "To Do Lists" and getting stressed out because they go on and on and there seems to be no end in sight and not enough time to do everything.
What I find helpful for myself is that every so often, I go through my "To Do Lists" and delete things that are not so important (as they may have seemed to be when I first wrote them down). This allows me to do a clean-up of my lists, prioritize and shorten them making them more manageable and reducing the stress I feel for having so much to do.

Mike ]]>mike@mikesstory.comConferences2007-11-19T21:34:08-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/fc9e3c02549979641171ad7a5c5efa6f-4.html#unique-entry-id-4http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/fc9e3c02549979641171ad7a5c5efa6f-4.html#unique-entry-id-4

On Nov. 12, 2007 I was asked to be a Guest Speaker for AMI-Quebec at the Institute of Community and Family Psychiatry of the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal along with Mike, John Stall, Elva Crawford, and Francine Waters.
The room was filled with people who were eager to learn more of Mike's Story. I spoke of the early years of Mike's illness up until Mike accepted the illness and treatment. It is hard to describe the affects on the family in a 5 minute presentation. I tried to illustrate that the illness can have devastating affects on every member of the family. In spite of this reality it is essential that the family remain supportive and always remain positive. NEVER GIVE UP. The family must believe that recovery will come with perseverance, continuously learning about the illness, prevention and lots of patience.
This was my first experience as a speaker and I truly enjoyed it. I saw a few faces light up as they really identified with what was being said. I truly hope we inspired some audience members to NEVER GIVE UP.
Personally, I got to hear how Elva Crawford, John Stall and Francine Waters, saw and interacted with Mike over the years. Once again I was proud to be Mike's sister and I am always amazed at how inspirational Mike is to everyone.
I would like to thank AMI-Quebec for inviting me to speak. I would do it again in a flash. Along with pain and torment in that room, I also felt lots of love, support and most important HOPE; THE HOPE OF RECOVERY.
Thank you to AMI-Quebec for your great work and service to the community.

Carmy Santoro ]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2007-11-26T21:32:52-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3b1882d8d93f5d5df16fbf1d0447d0f7-3.html#unique-entry-id-3http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/3b1882d8d93f5d5df16fbf1d0447d0f7-3.html#unique-entry-id-3

I think I was really born the day I turned fifty. That was last year and my husband surprised me with an intimate and delightful party with some of my closest friends and family. I had never felt younger or stronger. When others bemoan the fact that life is passing them by, I can’t be sympathetic. Life for me is finally gentle and good. I don’t mean easy, but good. Don’t ask me if I’m happy. Ask me if I have finally reached a sense of joy. Happiness is fleeting; joy includes acceptance, courage and determination in the face of life’s adversities. It is joy I want to know and I dare say that after so many years of struggle, I may have finally caught a glimpse of it.
I was always the first to think there was something “wrong” with me. But I was terrified to find out if that was the case. Until I was finally diagnosed with Bipolar disorder at the age of 31, so much water had flowed under the bridge. It is a similar story to many affected by mental illness. It was a journey which included thousands of hours of therapy, fear, confusion, struggle and finding the “right” doctor, the “right” recipe to help you over the hurdle. I find consolation and courage in celebrating life, one day at a time. In sharing our stories, we plant one more set of footprints towards changing the course of understanding of mental illness.

Sylvia Smith ]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2007-12-12T20:55:52-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/560080bc1890d7364e34993f4b01b664-2.html#unique-entry-id-2http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/560080bc1890d7364e34993f4b01b664-2.html#unique-entry-id-2


The slow creakiness of waiting
In love with anxious heart breaking…
How? With what within or outside?
Does the warm hand, tiny or large,
Related or unknown provide warmth?
Is the sustenance only physical?
When illness strikes the waiters?
How to reach the feeling beyond
Skin, muscle, tendons or body?
Are emotions better left?
Numb, non-existent, unuseful?
What are tears? Useful to moisten
What? My tears did flow singing
At my sister’s funeral mass.
Otherwise only drops I pay for
Give my eyeballs tears and drip ness.
Is that a healthy state for me?

Written January 9, 2005
Elizabeth Tremain
]]>mike@mikesstory.comPerson with a mental illness2007-12-06T20:53:02-05:00http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/865bb9cd0948eb612ce9472c5e8ac2a8-1.html#unique-entry-id-1http://www.mikesstory.com/page7/files/865bb9cd0948eb612ce9472c5e8ac2a8-1.html#unique-entry-id-1

Sometimes I feel like people look at me and think that my life is all fine and dandy and that I am "cured" from my illness. To many, it may seem that way because when you look at me, you cannot see the struggles I go through. The reality is that I work very hard to control my anxiety, monitor my moods, stay focused, stay very well organized as to not get overwhelmed, work with my support network around me to stay on track, continuously look for tips on how to better manage my illness, etc. etc. It's not always easy and there are times when I too feel like giving up. But I make sure that "giving up" is not an option. When those periods come, I try to remind myself that this period is only a storm and that it will pass just like other storms have passed many times before. As my community worker has said to me many times, when I will look at this "storm" in 6 or 12 months from now, it will probably all be water under the bridge.

Mike
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