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NAMIWALKS
It was a beautiful, sunny day on March 31st, 2007 when members
of the NAAAP-Phoenix participated in the annual
NAMIWALKS, a 5k walk, which started at the Phoenix State
Capitol.
NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness)
is an organization dedicated to helping those and their families
who are affected by a mental illness. Event coordinator, Khonnie
Silivonxay headed the NAAAP team. Approximately 3000
people gathered together to walk, raise awareness about mental
illness, and raise funding for the organization.
There were
booths lined up providing beverages and snacks as well as information
and entertainment for the walkers. Many different organizations
supported the event.
Over a dozen NAAAP members dressed in comfortable walking
gear walked proudly displaying the organization banner down
Adams Street in Downtown, Phoenix
which took about 1 hour to complete the walk. There were even
children and pets that also completed the walk. "It was fun
being able to walk for a great cause along with others on
such a nice spring day," stated NAAAP member Vathana
Thirakul. The walk was a great way for different
organizations to come together to show support for a nation-wide
organization that is provides advocacy, programs, support,
and education regarding mental illness. Due to NAAAP and others
there is greater knowledge about mental health issues and
needs. What a great feeling to be part of something that can
help millions of people!
Mary Ann Beltran Thirakul, Psy.D. is a NAAAP
member and a psychologist in private practice with San
Tan Counseling, PLC.
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