MIRA's 16th Annual Gold Key Gala 

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Casino Night at Andiamo's Italia,Warren

On Thursday, October 16^th, MIRA (the Mental Illness Research Association) held its 16^th annual Gold Key Event at Andiamo Italia in Warren.  About 230 people were in attendance to partake in the wonderful food, fabulous dessert buffet and to show support for this worthwhile charity.  Eric Hipple, former Detroit Lions Quarterback, gave a brief overview of his educational program in the schools and community – talking about the effects of losing his son to suicide brought on by depressive illness and about how his mission is to talk about depression and the importance of seeking help when depressive symptoms start showing up.  His positive message that there is help available, effective medications to help cope with these feelings of helplessness and what could be a temporary problem should not be solved by the life-ending act of suicide really hit home with a lot of people.  Eric always says that if his talk can save just one family from having to live through the agony that his family has endured – then his mission is a success.

Serving as MC for the evening was Oakland County Executive, L. Brooks Patterson, who was also the recipient of MIRA’s coveted Gold Key Award for his involvement and support of MIRA over the last 17 years.  Brooks has served for several years as the MC or co-MC with Dick Purtan for most of those 17 years – bringing with him, his great witticism, his ability to add levity to any situation and his passion for serving those less fortunate – our most vulnerable citizens affected with mental illnesses.  Introducing Brooks was MIRA’s own master of witticism, Dr. Ron Lewis – whose one-liners rivaled those of any worthwhile standup comedian.

Honorary Chair-couple was Dr. Ken & Diane Hightower.  Ken is the Dean and Professor of Health Sciences at Oakland University – and has played an integral part in the planning sessions for the new Oakland University/Beaumont School of Medicine, slated to open to students in 2010.  Dr. Hightower stated that the impact this School of Medicine will have on the economy of Oakland County and the State of Michigan will be unpresedented.  Not only will it bring in hundreds of jobs, it will also bring in an economic boost to a heavily burdened area.  MIRA and Oakland University have been talking about various ways in which we can be mutually supportive – especially by educating the general public about the advantages of preventative and translational research opportunities at OU.

Also receiving awards that evening were Dr. Leonard Rosen, the Medical Director of Oakland County Community Mental Health Authority.  Dr. Rosen was presented with the David J. Olen, MD Award (named after MIRA’s late Medical Director, Dr. Olen) for his commitment to the people living and being served right here in Oakland County.

The MIRA Milestone Award was also presented to a well known Oakland County entity – Community Network Services “Stomp Out Stigma” program, featuring Malkia Maliesha Newman, Margaret Thele and James Fortune.  The Milestone Award is presented to an organization, or corporation who has made a significant impact in helping erase the stigma of mental illness or making strides in helping those with brain disorders lead a healthy, productive life.  This nationally recognized program from CNS has done just that by presenting their “Stomp Out Stigma” program before crowds of all ages and demographics.

The final award, the Pat Elwell “Above & Beyond” Award was presented to Dr. Richard Berchou, the Vice President of Research for MIRA, and a PharmD at Wayne State University for his expertise in helping and supporting MIRA for the last 16 years.  Rick is the “go to” guy when questions arise about the various medications used in treating the mentally ill.  His expertise in neuropsychotropic medications is universally renown, making a difference in the lives of those suffering from a mental disorder.

The evening ended with a Casino Night – with several people going home with some great prizes (50” HD TV, digital video camera, GPS systems, Ipod Nano, digital camera, and others.)  Throughout the evening raffles were held, a silent auction offered several top-notch bargains and to round out the evening, it ended with a pizza party.  The funds generated from this event will go towards a research project, yet to be determined.

Special thanks to Joe Vicari of Andiamo’s for being such a great host, to Faye Wills, the Event planner for Andiamo’s, it’s wonderful staff, Rob Begosa, the event Chair and especially to all who came out in support of MIRA – despite the economic downturn at this time.