Support Jay’s Recovery From Crisis

I am writing on behalf of the LaPlante family as they were like my second family growing up. Ashley is my best friend and was the maid of honor at my wedding and I spent much of my childhood with her and her younger brother John LaPlante Junior. John, who is known by many as Jay, was later diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Jay was always a gentle soul and has tried for years to cope with his mental health disorder by diligently taking his medications and living a life focused around helping others. Jay was active in making YouTube videos about his fight with Schizophrenia, gave free blacksmithing demos in the local community, pursued supplemental education, and has held various full-time jobs. Jay was a well documented advocate of medication for mental health (he wouldn’t just quit taking it on his own). 

 

Unfortunately, this past Thursday, 3/22, Jay suffered a mental break when he ran out of medication. He got himself into some legal troubles while not being in a stable state of mind. During his mental break incident no one and no property was harmed. It was truly an incident of Jay calling out for help in the only way he felt he could in that moment.

 

Sadly, incidents like these take place much too often in our society because of the shortfalls our country has in handling those with a mental illness. Our health system is wonderful for helping those who are physically sick but lags those who need mental help. Had Jay been on his meds this incident would not have happened. Jay is fully cognizant of his mental illness, but like many, when off medications is unable to control the actions, his disorder can thrust upon him. Jay attempted to reach out for help before the incident occurred on Thursday, but sadly the system failed him.

 

The LaPlante family does not condone the actions Jay took on Thursday, but also knows how out of character this was for Jay. Rather than him stuck in a jail cell with no access to his medications or any form of treatment, they would like to get him help so he can return to being the son, brother, husband and uncle they know he truly is and not let this incident and his illness define him as a person. 

 

I am raising money on the LaPlante’s behalf with 100% of the proceeds to be used toward legal fees, medical costs, and future medical needs for Jay to get him the help he deserves and is so badly seeking. All donations are greatly appreciated by his family and will be used to ensure he is put in a treatment facility (not jail) and NEVER is unable to afford his medications.

 

With Love,

 

Amanda Kaufman and the LaPlante Family