On September 20, 2010, our son, Jason, suffered what we later identified as a severe schizophrenic break. He was 20 years old, so my wife Linda and I were not permitted to have a voice in his evaluations and care. Early in the morning of September 25, 2010, Jason went for, what had become during that week, one of his routine walks. He never returned. Jason was struck by a car at about 3:30 AM.
Out of this tragedy, Linda and I have made it our quest to dispel the all-too-common “shame” that people with mental disorders bear. In addition, we will loudly pronounce that these terrible mental disorders are genetic. They do not result from any of the old blame-based causes.
1 in 4 Americans live with mental health disorders. Please join us in the fight by supporting NARSAD, The Brain and Behavior Research Fund; the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI); Mental Health America; the Autism Society of America; and your County Department of Health Services.
On May 14, 2011, the Jason Tennies Memorial Foundation will conduct the CHINO VALLEY WALK FOR MENTAL HEALTH IN MEMORY OF JASON TENNIES. At the Walk we will honor all persons battling with mental disorders and we will honor Jason as a memorial. Proceeds from this event will go to NARSAD, The Brain and Behavior Research Fund. NARSAD, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is the driving force in the search for new treatments and cures for all major mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and childhood psychiatric disorders. 100% of all donations made to NARSAD go directly to research. All operational expenses are generously underwritten by two family foundations.
Thank you very much for your support.
David Tennies
Today on 4-24-11 I heard the Tennies speak about their son Jason. I had just dropped of my son with whom I have experienced the exact same thing. I was sad and happy to hear their story. Sad because Jason is gone and I feel their pain and know that could very well be me any given day, but happy because I now realize that their are so many other people going through this and I am not alone as I often feel. Thank You so much.
What beautiful heartfelt tributes to your precious Jason! It was very touching to hear from those close to him and it was very clear that he was a very special person. Thank you for the work you do and for sharing Jason.
Thanks so much Carol.