Because mental illness is still stigmatizing, people want to hide their illness. Having a diagnosis of cancer would be more acceptable to talk about than having a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, depression or schizophrenia. The public needs to be educated and sensitized so that those who suffer from its symptoms don’t have to feel ashamed and not understood.

Mary Jo Codey said it best at our first annual walk held on June 8, 2008. When speaking during opening ceremonies, she referred to the crowd as "my heroes." She was encouraged by the willingness of the participants to come forward and be acknowledged as either the patient, family member or friend of someone suffering from an illness that is still misunderstood, misdiagnosed and stigmatizing. Mrs. Codey, an outspoken advocate for the mentally ill, described the vast difference she personally experienced when being hospitalized for electroconvulsive shock therapy treatment as opposed to when she was hospitalized for breast cancer. The staff assisting her as she was being prepared to undergo an ECT treatment, a frightening ordeal, avoided discussing any of it with her. Instead they spoke about the weather. In total contrast, as a breast cancer patient, the staff was supportive and attentive, providing assurance that all patients deserve to receive.

With the success of our third walk now behind us, we are focused on making next year’s walk even bigger and better. We are proud to announce New Jersey Senator Richard and Mary Jo Codey have again agreed to serve as our honorary chairpersons. The date reserved for the Fourth Annual Taking Strides Against Mental Illness Walk is Sunday, May 15, 2011. If interested in becoming a walker, volunteer or sponsor, please contact us at info@againstmentalillness.org.