Breaking the Stigma: My Journey from Pain to Purpose

When it comes to mental health, the stigma is still real and, sadly, very present. So many people are afraid to ask for help. They worry about what others might think. As a result, they go through life suffering in silence, believing they have to handle everything alone. But the truth is: it doesn’t have to be this way.

Turning Pain into Purpose

I realized that my pain didn’t have to define me. Instead, I could use it to help others.
I transformed my tragedy into something meaningful by sharing my lifetime of trauma through
my book True To Myself.

Stepping onto the stage of vulnerability wasn’t easy. I put my life out there—not for attention, but
because I knew that others needed to hear that they’re not alone.

A humbling experience with WFAN!

WFAN in New York is the number one sports radio network, with Bob Salter at the helm for over
30 years. Bob has interviewed thousands of guests from the sports world, but he invited me to discuss the
stigma surrounding mental health.

Our conversation turned into a 45-minute interview, aired on his Sunday morning show.
A year after our interview, Bob retired. Out of all the thousands of interviews he conducted
during his three-decade career, he chose mine to replay as his very last show.
That gesture humbled me more than words can express. It was a profound reminder of the
impact we can have when we step out of our comfort zones.

Mental Health Does Not Discriminate

WFAN’s audience is mostly male—a demographic not always open to discussing mental health.
This experience proves that mental health challenges don’t discriminate; they affect everyone,
regardless of gender, background, or profession. By sharing my story, I hope to break down barriers, encourage others to speak up, and remind
everyone that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you’re struggling, remember: you are not alone. There is power in vulnerability, and there is
hope in reaching out. Your story matters—never be afraid to share it.