


Diagnosed with ALS in 2007
Founded "Corey's Crusade" to give voice to ALS sufferers
Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2001
Became national speaker & trainer for The National Alliance on Mental Illness
Their stories of turning adversity
into advocacy will inspire you!
Browse through our collection of inspiring stories from our incredible advocates.



Denis Asselin
Jan 27, 2014 | Advocate, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Grief & Loss
Denis Asselin Adversity: Lost Son, Nathaniel, who battled severe Body Dysmorphic Disorder Advocacy: Walked more than 500 miles, raising awareness about BDD "I felt as if walking was a way of pushing out the energy in a positive way – using the power of...
Shannon Shy
Shannon Shy Adversity: Battled OCD while on active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps Advocacy: Published his OCD recovery story in “It’ll be Okay” “It has been extremely rewarding and very therapeutic trying to help other people. Maybe that’s the reason my...
Reverend Bill Hassel
Pastor Bill Hassel Adversity: Diagnosed with ALS in 2008 Advocacy: Founded the 5K Stroll, Roll ’n’ Run for ALS Research “No one knows or controls what life throws at you; with God's help, you can handle it and do something positive in spite of it.”...
Corey Reich
Corey Reich Adversity: Diagnosed with ALS in 2007 Advocacy: Founded "Corey's Crusade" to give voice to ALS sufferers "I never really thought about NOT sharing my story. It never even crossed my mind that I wouldn’t go out and try to do everything that I...
Robert Villanueva
Jan 19, 2014 | Advocate, Bipolar Disorder
Robert Villanueva Adversity: Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2001 Advocacy: Became national speaker & trainer for The National Alliance on Mental Illness "I see change. People grow. It helps me flourish. It...