Video: PLP Assist In Pedal Cycle Donation
The PLP recently assisted in providing pedal bikes for two individuals who suffer mental illness, saying that “mental illness is a disease that affects all of us in Bermuda, not just those that suffer with it directly. ”
Dennis Lister Jr. said “So often when you hear Progressive Labour Party you think of the Party Politics. However, there is another and very important part of the Party that operates within our communities. This part of the party, tries when it can to assist Bermudians who are in need.
“PLP Chairman Maynard Dill was approached by Mr. Karl Outerbridge in regard to assistance in providing pedal bikes for two individuals who suffer mental illness, and made arrangements to procure the cycles.
“It was at this point that I was asked to participate and met with Karl to get a better idea of the issue. It was through these discussions that I became better aware of the hidden disease that is mental illness, and the challenges those who suffer it are faced with.
“You may ask what is mental illness? Mental illness is defined as a mental or behavioral pattern that causes either suffering or an impaired ability to function and which is not a developmental or social norm. The causes of mental illness varies and is sometimes unclear.
“Mental illness is a disease that affects all of us in Bermuda, not just those that suffer with it directly. It is a hidden disease that no one wants to speak about but now is the time to bring it to the front. We are here to raise the awareness of Mental Health, so that people can know what it is and how to assist those that suffer with it.
“Today we would like to start by presenting two cycles to Mr. George Gilbert and Mr. Tony Smith, who suffer from mental illness. These gentlemen suffer differently from their illnesses, but they have one thing in common and that is cycling. It was interesting to find out that cycle riding was not only therapeutic, but also lessened their reliance on some prescription medication.
“The freedom of being able to get out on their bikes and take their minds off of what is bothering them helps them heath wise and financially. Financially, it helps because they can for a time become less dependent on the prescriptions and medications. Health wise they benefit by relaxing their minds and assisting their mental state and equally important exercise for their physical health.
“On behalf of the PLP, I would like to thank Kevin Smith and Terry-Ann Smith of GET, and Social Cycles for doing their part in assisting to raise awareness of the issue of Mental Health in Bermuda.”
Often we think of party politics. So here is some party politricks.