(7-6-17) I first became friends with Mary Zdanowicz when we were appointed to serve on a Virginia task force rewriting the state’s involuntary commitment standards. Several members of that committee, who had mental illnesses, were adamant about not changing the “imminent danger” language that had stopped me from getting my son help when he clearly was psychotic. Sadly, the meetings turned contentious. Through it all, Mary took the high ground. She ignored unnecessary bickering and insults, and never disclosed that she had a mental illness even though one of our antagonists considered us the enemy and felt that her diagnosis gave her more insights than Mary or any of the rest of us could possibly have. I came to greatly admire Mary’s dedication and determination – especially under fire. I was not surprised when I learned she was running for the NAMI board on a “Focus on Serious Mental Illness” ticket because, in her own life and professionally, Mary always has advocated for the sickest of the sick. Here’s her speech from the convention. She was not elected.
MARY ZDANOWICZ – FOR SOME: HOPE IS NOT ENOUGH
Why Focus on Serious Mental Illness?
Because NAMI is the only organization for people with serious mental illnesses and their families. 
To be clear, serious mental illness is not based upon diagnosis alone. It is not just schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
It depends on the duration and severity of functional impairment of any diagnosable mental illness. It includes anxiety disorders, PTSD and others.
In recent years though, NAMI elected officials have broadened the organization’s focus.
This would be fine except it seems that the focus on mental illness is diminishing and “mental health disorders” are gaining prominence.
