Finding Meaning in Our Story - Ryan Leaf

Many of us are aware May is a time we use for Mental Health awareness. ESPN via E:60 is sharing Ryan Leaf's story today. I'm not sure they intended to make the connection, but those who serve the Behavioral Health communities will. I watched it, reminded and inspired, there is always a way forward. 

Everybody has a story; when we pull back, pause, listen to understand, we find we're all more alike than not. While there will be noise that these are not often told until there is nothing to lose, it does not minimize the need for us to hear it, learn from it and help. 

Ryan's greatest work may not be known by those who critique him the most. Finding his way by helping others, first by teaching those incarcerated with him to read. Later taking a job to drive those in a rehab faculty to appointments. Now, using his story to help others know and understand they are not alone. 

I'm cheering for Ryan, that recovery continues, that his story is used for goodness. Ryan is having far more impact now, in the most important aspects of life than any glory he could have found on the field. 

From stardom, to arrest...from suicide attempt to wellness and recovery advocate...life will present all kinds of moments, powerful and beautiful when we fight to own it. 

Thank you Ryan for being willing to share your story! You remind us that 'EveryDay Matters', that we must advocate and underscore the need for an integrated health care system. 

#MHFA #1in1m #DadTalking #UnRandomLife #BeIntentional