Welcome to the Functioning podcast, where we dive deep into real-life experiences and share candid conversations about living with schizophrenia. I’m OneGunn, joined by my wonderful wife and co-host, Wendy, aka Lovey, and together, we’re on a mission to find a cure for schizophrenia.
Choosing to Speak Out
When our son was diagnosed with schizophrenia, we were faced with a choice: to keep it quiet or to speak out. Coming from a generation where mental health discussions were often shrouded in secrecy, we bravely chose to change the narrative. Through our shared experiences and activism, we discovered a community of support instrumental in helping us navigate this challenging journey.
Impact Beyond Diagnosis
Living in Minnesota, renowned for its robust mental health services, has been a blessing for our family. However, we recognize that schizophrenia’s impact extends far beyond those directly affected by the diagnosis. It touches the lives of families, communities, and society as a whole. Homelessness, often exacerbated by untreated mental illness, is a stark reminder of the urgency to address this issue.
Amplifying the Conversation
A poignant moment came while watching CNBC, when Jim Cramer asked, “What’s up with schizophrenia? Why isn’t anyone doing anything about that?” It’s a question that resonated deeply with us, prompting us to take action and amplify the conversation.
Finding Humor in Adversity
Humor has become our coping mechanism amidst the challenges we face. It doesn’t diminish the gravity of our experiences but rather serves as a beacon of light in the darkness. Inspired by this, we launched a podcast to foster open dialogue and provide a safe space for others to share their stories and find solace in knowing they’re not alone.
Our Approach
While we’re not professionals, we bring a wealth of lived experience and street smarts to the table. Together, we tackle topics such as the fear of violence, the burden of responsibility, and the pervasive stigma surrounding schizophrenia.
Seeking a Cure
Our journey towards finding a cure has led us down unexpected paths, from holistic treatments to meetings with scientists at the forefront of research. Fueled by our unwavering love and a desire to spare others from the challenges we’ve faced, we remain determined in our pursuit.
Join Us in the Pursuit of Healing and Hope
As we continue our search, we invite you to join us in this pursuit of healing and hope. Whether you’re a family member, a caregiver, or someone living with schizophrenia, your voice matters. Together, we can uplift each other and strive toward a future where mental illness no longer holds power over our lives.
Thank you for being part of our family and our quest for a cure. Together, we can make a difference.