Rep. Debbie Dingell gave a moving address at the 2021 Benefit for the Michigan Psychoanalytic Foundation. John Gilkey, M.D., presided over the event as MPF and MPI president. Ronald Benson, M.D., gave a personal “introduction” that in fact came at the end due Rep. Dingell needing to return to negotiations as quickly as possible.

From her office in the Capitol Building
John Gilkey, M.D. – MPF and MPI President

Ronald Benson, M.D.

Southeastern Michigan and Washington, D.C. (via Zoom): On Friday, November 5, Representative Debbie Dingell took a precious half hour out of her hectic evening of negotiating the Social Spending and Infrastructure Bills to keep her appointment with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Foundation (MPF), who were honoring her for her efforts to reduce the stigmas associated with mental illness. From her office in the Capitol Building, Rep. Dingell set aside prepared comments and spoke from her heart. She first spoke passionately about her concerns for the country and the importance of the two bills she was working hard to negotiate. She then turned to the topic of mental illness and spoke movingly about her father’s and sister’s struggles with mental illness and the suffering experienced by the family. She decried the meager services available to people struggling with addictions and mental illness and the lack of attention our society gives to patients and their families. She gave numerous examples of stigma interfering with her husband’s work and with her own comfort in sharing her life experiences with other people. In deciding to be open about her family’s troubles, Rep. Dingell has given a great gift to all of us who have similar struggles and may feel isolated and alone.

The 2021 Benefit surpassed its fundraising goal of $100,000. Thank you to all our loyal supporters!

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