From Kim Brown:
Over 100 Pender Island residents attended the play written and performed by Alan Weeks entitled Thats Al Folks! last September and more than 50 stayed after the production to talk about mental health needs on our island. The Pender Island Mental Health Initiative invites you to continue the dialogue
On Saturday March 27th at 7:30 PM at the Pender Community Hall you are invited to view the critically-acclaimed film House of Sand and Fog. Admission by donation.
This 2003 film is a modern day tragedy about life and death that is profoundly emotional and poignant. The movie stars Jennifer Connelly as Kathy, a depressed, recovering alcoholic, and Sir Ben Kingsley as Behrani, a former high-ranking Iranian colonel working hard at two menial jobs to create success for his family. (From Movies and Mental Illness.)
Everyone is invited to stay afterwards for an open discussion. Mental health professionals will be in attendance to answer questions.
Thanks to PIRAHA (Pender Island Recreation and Agricultural Hall Association) and the Pender Island Film Group for their assistance and support.
About Alan Weeks, author of “That’s Al Folks!“:
“Alan Weeks, from Mayne Island, was diagnosed with schizophrenia ten years ago. Before his illness he’d acted in eight Mayne Island Little Theatre productions, so once he had recovered from his psychosis, it was natural for him to want to write and act out a play about his illness. At times the play is humorous, so don’t be thinking it’s going to be a downer!” – from ActiveGaliano.org
and from the Pender Island Health Centre website:
Crisis and Mental Health Counselling
250 629-0032
24 Hour Help Line, Call Anytime
Rob Willingham, Crisis and Mental Health Counsellor
iona2@shaw.ca
Program Description: Crisis intervention, mental health support, information and referral. For individuals, couples and families. Visits in the home or at the Health Centre by appointment.