John Wellens spent 42 days paddling the Mississippi River as a fundraiser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. This is part 2 of his journey.

Human needs

Electronic safety devices needed to be charged. Solar power was great when the sky was clear.

Potable water in the South became focus #1.

Safety was a big concern. My 1st priority was hydration. Maslow’s hierarchy of need was in question.

Shelter was a distant 3rd priority. Food was #2.

I purified water out of ‘ol muddy on occasion, but that was not for large volume.

Inner demons

I was moved to tears each time I learned that my messages for mental health awareness were reaching those who struggle with mental illness.

Many people confided in me about their inner demons. They thanked me for messages that they are “not alone” and “it’s ok to talk.”

Those phrases were used repeatedly with hashtags in my social media posts.

I met people willing to share stories of their mental health battles.

Some were triumphant.

Some were tragic.

All were enlightening. They offered substance

They offered substance to what could have come across as a theoretical approach to a mental health campaign. I appreciate their time and support for this cause.

I also thank all of those who have donated to the fundraiser for which proceeds have been received directly by NAMI.

$30,000 goal

Donors consisted of friends and family but also people whom I have never met and would never have reached without the assistance of the media.

I am grateful for every one of those donations.

Although the trip itself is complete, the fundraising continues. I set a goal of $30,000 and I’m currently over 1/3 of the way there.

For those who struggle with mental illness I urge you to seek help and know that it’s OK to talk.

You wouldn’t hesitate to see a doctor if you broke your arm. Why would emotional distress be different?

Find a counselor and contact a local NAMI chapter. You’ll be glad you did.

If you fill your heart with hope, there is no room for anything else.

You can find out more about John and his mission at www. namipaddle.org .