Help Ian (and Oatmeal) on the Road to Recovery

Hi, my name is Teresa. I'm asking for your support on behalf of my amazing nephew, Ian.

 

Ian has been challenged by mental illness since he was a teenager. In his 30's now, he's done a remarkable job working through his challenges. Master's Degree. Wonderful Dog Papa. Full-time employment. Move to LA (he's from Oregon.) No matter when or how the worst of it hits, he has always come out stronger. He amazes me. Then two months ago, sadly, the mental illness got the best of him... again.

 

Let me share with you Ian's words.

 

 

 

 

"Hi all,

 

Those closest to me know I have been going through a mental health crisis since January 31st . It was kicked off by a psychotic episode which ended in two hospitalizations and me losing my car and temporarily (thank goodness) losing my best buddy Oatmeal. Since then I have been dealing with the after-effects of mania, which include severe depressive and anxious episodes that have left me in and out of in-patient treatment and unable to work. Therapy and psychiatric care are expensive, and I also recently had to pay a $1,000 vet bill.

 

Because of all this, I need to ask for financial help to keep me on my feet until I am able to get back to work full time.

 

For those that know me, your messages and words of encouragement have meant more to me than you know, and of course any amount you are able contribute would be seen as an incredibly generous bonus to that which you have already given me in love and support. For those who don't know me, I can't thank you enough for even considering.

 

Thank you all for everything. I love you.

 

Ian"

 

 

In May, Ian's plan is to go back to work (part) part-time. He is a German teacher (but not in a school district, so he pays insurance and all of the associated out-of-pocket costs that come from not-so-great insurance.) He'll only be teaching one class. Getting back to work is a priority, but having to start with only one class will not help him bridge the financial gap he is facing. Stress is a huge trigger for him, so I (along with his mom, friends and family) are doing what we can to help him through this incredibly tough time.

 

Funds used will pay for therapy appointments, medical bills and living expenses until work load can be back to full.

 

While Ian thanks you for consideration, I too want to thank you. And to thank the incredible Charlene Gorzela, who suggested we do this.

 

Thanks so much for considering!

Peace,

Teresa (and Anne and Char and all the other amazing people coming together in support of Ian...and Oatmeal, too!)

 

 

This last picture is the reunion photo of Ian and Oatmeal. They got separated when Ian was in his psychotic episode. I think Oatmeal is as much Ian's rescue dog as Ian is Oatmeal's rescue person. Oatmeal was found 6 miles from where they were split up - on his way home to Ian!