Interviewing Donavan Gardner

UPLIFTING THE COMMUNITY

Education about Mental Health

Then on the inside of the flap it will have your bio

My name is Donavan Gardner.  My Dad was the confidence I needed.  My mom demonstrated strength.  I had a lot of family support as I look back.  I started off with a struggle.  I was diagnosed with a learning disability.  I had behavior problems when I started school.  My teachers said I was creative.  I even taught myself some skills that I thought I needed.  My main problem was, not listening.  At 12 years old I was diagnosed with bipolar disease. This is where I started my journey.  Court cases, jail stays, in and out of different hospitals.  I was misunderstood by many.  A smile would lift me, but I would sometimes use those people for the wrong reasons.  My life was a rollercoaster.  I decided to try God.  I could stand tall on a search for knowledge and wisdom.  My family was there the whole time.  It took opening my eyes and looking pass my own issues and anger.  I believe that I went through this to help others.

Mental illness is increasing rapidly in the United States.  According to the “Business Insider,” the United States has 1 in 5 Americans affected by mental health issues.  45.6 million adults have a diagnosable mental illness.  Between the years of 1987 to 2007, the diagnosed cases has risen 2 ½ times.  What do we do?  How do we cope with these issues? There is a call to action.

On the second fold

Donavan Gardner has answered these questions.  He has spoken at:

Churches, such as Fellowship Christian Church

Mentored students at V. Lindsey School

Advocated in Topeka on Advocacy Day.  Led the March to the Capital Building