by: Jordan Carson
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOTV)-We are thrilled to welcome #iUnderstand as a community partner of Live Local-Give Local, at WOOD TV8/WOTV4.
#Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people age 10-34. i understand is a non-profit organization that offers compassionate comfort to those affected by #suicide and #mentalillness.
#iunderstand believes in a future where the #stigma associated with #suicide and #mentalillness is erased.
#iunderstand was created by Vonnie Woodrick in 2014 in loving memory of her husband Rob who lost his battle with #depression in 2003.
#iUnderstand believes:
- #iunderstand #suicide is an effect of an illness
- #iunderstand #mentalillnesses are treatable
- #iunderstand #stigma is the #1 reason why someone would not seek treatment for #mentalillness; education and awareness are vital to saving and changing lives
- #iunderstand reaching out to those who are suffering could save a life; let someone know you are available and treat them with respect and compassion
- #iunderstand most people who are suicidal do not want to die; they want their pain to end
- #iunderstand speaking out about #suicide may empower others to share their stories
- #iunderstand feelings of guilt are part of the grieving process on the way to finding peace and acceptance
- #iunderstand those who die by #suicide do make it to heaven
For more information on #iUnderstand, visit www.iunderstandloveheals.org
Call the #SuicidePreventionHotline at 1.800.273.8255
If you’re thinking about #suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the #UnitedStates.
#JamesDonaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space. #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
