August Spotlight

Patricia Nelson, NAMI NH Volunteer and Supporter

I am NAMI NH because…

I believe that no one should ever have to face mental illness alone. NAMI was there for me when I needed it most. I am committed to giving back to an organization that has meant so much to me and my family.

iQ iiiHow long have you been a NAMI NH volunteer and in what capacity?

I lose track of time, but I would guess that I have been involved with NAMI for over 15 years. I began going to a support group shortly after my daughter was diagnosed. A while later I was asked by the group to become President of the Concord Affiliate and have been facilitating the support group ever since. I was in the first group of NAMI volunteers to be trained as Family to Family teachers and have taught the class several times. It is always a wonderful experience. I have been the NAMI representative on the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects for 4 years. The committee meets once a month at NH Hospital. I have learned a tremendous amount about mental illness through that experience. On occasion, I have spoken as a family member as part of the orientation sessions for newly hired staff workers at NH Hospital. I have served on NAMI's education committee. And I participate in the NAMI Walk every year.

iQ iii Congratulations on recent recognition by Volunteer NH. We bet you are excited about the upcoming ceremony with Governor Lynch. Will your family and friends be attending?

Actually, I have not spoken to anyone about it yet because I don't know when it is. I have not been notified. My family is too far away. I will certainly invite the members of our support group when I see them on Monday evening.

iQ iii Do you volunteer, support and/or advocate for other causes, local or national organizations?

As a cancer survivor, I have been supporting and volunteering for the American Cancer Society since 1996. I serve on the Survivorship Committee of both the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk and Relay For Life. I have just finished two years as chairperson of Concord's Relay For Life. I have been an advocate for adult education for over 30 years. It is the work I do and I am very passionate about it.

iQ iii We are half way through the summer, have you been able to enjoy the beautiful weather? Any specific hobbies or activities you like to engage in throughout the warm months?

During the summer, I love to catch up on my reading. I don't have a lot of time for pleasure reading during the school year. I also enjoy traveling to visit family and friends during my vacation, and I love to swim and take long walks.