A MESSAGE FROM Mikayla Ullrich's Fundraising Page
Two years ago, in my first semester of law school, I experienced a devastation that shook me to my core. I was preparing for class when my family received the call that my 18-year-old cousin, Sean, had lost his battle with mental health struggles. The pain of losing Sean, someone so young and full of potential, made returning to school feel like an impossible task.
Through this darkness, I found a glimmer of light in realizing that the adversity we encounter has the power to guide our paths forward and shape us into strong, resilient individuals. Despite my personal heartbreak, I found strength within myself that I never knew I possessed, and eventually, inspiration grew inside me. Alongside a group of dedicated friends at my school, we founded OHM, a mental health organization with the mission of raising awareness, providing support, and promoting mental wellness within law school.
As I graduate this May, I have realized that my dedication to supporting those impacted by mental illness is far from over, which is why I will be running the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon in support of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. I am asking for your support as I progress on my journey to fundraise for this incredible organization.
NAMI-NYC helps families and individuals affected by mental illness build better lives through education, support, and advocacy. As a mental health leader in New York City, NAMI-NYC provides the most comprehensive family and peer support system. Since 1982, NAMI-NYC has provided support to a vastly under-served population of families and individuals who live with mental illness. Their Helpline, peer-led support groups, and educational courses allow families and individuals to share their struggles, and talk about symptoms, treatments, community resources, and strategies for coping. All groups and classes are facilitated by trained peer volunteers - we have "been there," where you are, and we understand what you're going through.
Your donations help NAMI-NYC provide education, support, and advocacy to over 30,000 New Yorkers yearly, all free-of-charge to anyone who needs them. With your support, we will continue to expand our services to reach more New Yorkers every year.
For more information on NAMI-NYC's programs or to access their services, please contact the Helpline: 212.684.3264 or email helpline@naminyc.org.
