over the years, Manny and Rachel, both cancer survivors, gradually shifted from their longtime network ofNew York doctors to aprimary care physician and specialists affiliated with Chilton.“ Invariably, Chilton has played alarger role in our health care,” said Manny.“ We’ ve relied on these doctors and the Emergency Room for many of our medical needs, and the care has been excellent.”“ We’ re impressed bythe impact of this hospital,” asserted Rachel.“ We also see Chilton’ sdesire togrow and improve … and want to be part of it.”
The couple recently funded two grants to initiate acommunity-based behavioral health education series and asuicide prevention initiative atChilton called“ No More Whispers.” Personally and professionally, the Reiser family has witnessed the perils and needless tragedies associated with mental illness, igniting apassion to promote access to behavioral health screenings and intervention.
“ This is acritical, pervasive issue for our society,” stated Manny.“ Our hope is to remove the stigma associated with mental illness and encourage people to seek help. Iget chills thinking that our
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gift could make adifference … and potentially save alife.”
“ Manny and Ihad vastly different upbringings,” added Rachel.“ He grew up on welfare; Igrew up as aJew in Iran. Through both of these experiences, we understand the goodness and importance of charity and believe strongly in sharing our blessings with others.”
No More Whispers: it’ s tiMe to talk about MeNtal health issues
For those of us who have never experienced mental health issues, it’ s often difficult trying to relate to friends, family or loved ones who suffer with behavioral or emotional challenges.
Acknowledging the existence ofmental health issues within our families and
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communities is avery important first step to receiving the necessary support, which is why Chilton Medical Center, in partnership with funding and support from the Reiser Family Foundation in Warwick, NY, created its“ No MoreWhispers” program.
“ The stigma surrounding mental health has gone on for far too long,” says Director of Atlantic Behavioral Health Lori Ann Rizzuto, LCSW.“ Many people don’ twant toadmit they are struggling – often they are embarrassed or ashamed. This feeling of isolation has to end, which is why this program was developed and why it’ s so important for our community.”
No More Whispers is motivated to get people talking openly about acondition that affects one in six U. S. adult lives, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Through printed materials, presentations and community outreach efforts, No More Whispers will enhance awareness and engage influencers throughout New Jersey about the importance of access to mental health care.
“ So many communities are doing amazing work already,” says Rizzuto.“ We want to integrate our efforts with theirs. Our message is clear: We all need to address this challenge together by encouraging those in need to ask for help.” v
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summer 2018 Chilton Magazine |