October 20, 2005

Fund Raiser for Early Treatment Program - Canada

Research has shown that early treatment for schizophrenia (as soon as any symptoms show up) helps improve the chances for the best outcome.

Canadians are taking this to heart and are establishing a nationwide network of early psychosis (schizophrenia) treatment centers. Sadly, the USA is far behind many of the developed countries in this area of getting early treatment for people suffering from schizophrenia.

Local groups in Canada are even fund raising to improve staffing levels at these new centers:

In Windsor, Ontario The second annual Big Night Gala to raise funds for mental disorders will be held Nov. 11 at the Caboto Club.

Last year's inaugural event raised $76,000 toward the Schizophrenia and First Episode Psychosis Program operating out of Windsor Regional Hospital's Western campus, under Dr. Len Cortese.

The money raised last year was used to hire specialized clinicians for the program, which is now funded by a grant from drugmaker Eli Lilly. Money raised this year will be used to hire needed staff.

The program was developed in response to the death of Windsor cardiologist Dr. Percy Demers, who was killed by his son, Thomas, in a psychotic rage. There is a waiting list of people to enter the program and the need for mental health treatment is critical, program sponsors say.

The evening will start at 5:30 p.m. with a cash bar and hors d'oeuvres. Dinner includes wine, and there will be a silent auction, a raffle for a Caribbean cruise and a 42-inch plasma TV. Three bands will provide entertainment.

Tickets are $75, or $750 for a table of 10 people. For information contact Mary-Anne Roy at 257-5111, ext. 76970, or Carol Diemer at ext. 76970.


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