The Lethbridge Herald
Thursday A, Thursday,
March 6, 2008, p. a4
Today's SACPA session to discuss homeless, mental illness
Wiebe, Jeff
Lethbridge Herald
If Austin Mardon had not strictly adhered to his
treatment regime of antipsychotic medication, he believes he could have easily
ended up on the street.
Mardon, a Lethbridge native and U of L graduate,
will speak today at the weekly meeting of the Southern Alberta Council for
Public Affairs on the subject of homelessness and mental illness.
Between
35 per cent and 75 per cent of homeless people have at least one serious mental
illness. More than 80 per cent of those with schizophrenia do not take their
meditation consistently, resulting in recurring illnesses. Mardon will discuss
ways to reach those suffering from serious mental illness and its connection to
homelessness. As a diagnosed schizophrenic, Mardon will be speaking from
experience.
The SACPA forum will run from noon to 1 p.m. in the lower
level of The Keg, located on Mayor Magrath Drive South. The cost is $10 and
includes lunch.