Cynthia Cunningham
NOMINEE
Nominated by
Samantha L Williams
May 14, 2017
When I had my first manic episode and finally received an accurate diagnosis she did not skip a beat. She took off work to be with me 24/7. I did not sleep for 6 nights and would not eat for 7 and she stayed awake with me. She coaxed me into drinking Slim Fast. She tolerated my suffering hallucinations, being too scared to sleep... even me thinking hunger pangs were the effect of me being pregnant (I had never had sex at that time in my life.) Knowing her life would never be the same, she immediately stopped everything she was doing to learn what bipolar was. Like so many others out there, we had no idea what this was. With determination she sought answers. After searching she came across NAMI Waco. There were no classes available here. She was asked if she would be interested in teaching the class in order to help one be started in our community. She began helping other families that were going through similar experiences. She began volunteering, coordinating events, sacrificing free time to help advocate on my behalf and on the behalf of others with a mental health condition. She joined the NAMI Waco board. She was chosen to be the executive director. She has been nonstop helping others for 11 years (literally without ceasing). This woman has NOT had a break in forever!!
Thanks to her, I have been living in stability for 8 years, I am a Certified Peer Support Specialist, facilitate support groups, and giving presentations (accompanied by her) to educate junior high and high school students suicide awareness, prevention, and how to help those in need that may feel like they are with out hope and wish to take their lives.