Welcome to FACES.

FACES was founded in memory of Justin Myers by families of loved ones with brain disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and schizoaffective disorder. The families had bonded together in their dismay at society's lack of compassion and effective services in dealing with the hardship of these brain disorders. But it was Justin's story that was the catalyst that created the entity known as FACES.

Justin was a bright, handsome young man of only 20 who lost his life to bipolar disorder.

No one ever imagined that this wonderful young man, one day in June of 2004, would find that the pain and depression of his illness was more than he could endure. No one ever thought that on this day in June, without warning, Justin would find a way to end his pain and torment and take his life.

Sadly the tragic death of Justin is not unique; suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in the 10 to 24 age group. Sadly the stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents our youth from seeking treatment. We do know in many cases treatment and recovery are possible with the proper medication, counseling, and supportive services. Life can be happy and productive for those who are challenged by brain disorders.

No one ever thought that just 7 months later in January, 2005 Eddie Myers, father of Justin, would die of a broken heart. The death report says a massive heart attack but we all knew it was due to a broken heart. Eddie had lost his only son and went to join his son.

Today, Pat Myers and her daughter Lauren stand strong and bear witness to the devastation mental illness can leave in its wake.

Today the members of FACES join with Pat Myers, loving mother and wife and Lauren Myers, dedicated sister and daughter in the fight to bring truth to mental illness and to name it for what it is: a brain disorder. The families of FACES' mission is to fight stigma and put a face on mental illness. It is a mission of hope and recovery.

Please join us in our mission.