Richard creates a new beginning with Hope

November 2, 2018

That was the reoccurring chapter in Richard’s story. Richard has schizophrenia, a thought disorder that affects the way he processes information and perceives the world around him. But that’s not how his story began.

Richard grew up on a dairy farm in New Munich. He had a happy childhood and attended Saint John’s Prep and Saint John’s University. Aspirations for additional education took him to Rome to study theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, where a rigorous curriculum began to take a toll on Richard’s mental health. He attributed his struggles to stress.

When love sidetracked his plans, Richard came back to Minnesota to marry his college sweetheart. Years later, when Richard was attending an educational program at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, his anxiety and schizophrenia spiraled out of control and he was admitted to the hospital in Minneapolis. Afterward, he came back home to Central Minnesota feeling disgraced, deeply depressed and suicidal.

But that’s not the end of Richard’s story. With the help of critical support and services from Catholic Charities HOPE Community Outreach Services, Richard created a new beginning.

Today, Richard receives weekly visits from a HOPE mental health practitioner and attends support groups for schizophrenia and depression that help keep his illness in check. He also volunteers his time as a group facilitator and a champion for mental illness support, speaking to groups and heading up the annual National Alliance on Mental Illness walk.

Richard’s story isn’t unique. In fact, one in four people suffers from mental illness. Which is why your gift to Catholic Charities is so important. Our HOPE program is the only one of its kind in Central Minnesota. With your help, we can continue to provide critical services and social support to those affected by mental illness.

Everyone deserves a chance to create a healthier, happier story. Your financial gift is a way to say that you believe in and support the important mission of Catholic Charities. Together, we can make God’s Love Visible in each new chapter for Richard…and everyone who relies on our life-saving services.

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