Over 30,000 people die each year from suicide, making it the 11th leading cause of death in America. Among teenagers and young adults ages 15-24, suicide is the third leading cause of death. Over 90% of deaths from suicide are attributed to mental health conditions such as depression, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, etc. These statistics are staggering yet, due to the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide, many victims and families are forced to fight their painful battles in private.

Gail Boledovich, loving mother of four and 20-year Royal Oak resident took her life on May 1, 2005 after a hopeless three-year struggle with schizophrenia. Her family was devastated by the loss. However, while dealing with the pain, guilt, and confusion surrounding suicide, they realized a way to both honor their mother and help others. In 2006, Gail’s children founded Mind Over Matter, lovingly referred to as MOM, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Here at MOM, we are committed to providing a sense of hope and unity for those coping with mental illness or dealing with the aftermath of suicide.  You are not alone, and help is available.  Our focus is to raise community awareness and funding for brain research and suicide prevention programs here in Michigan.  We have one primary goal: to save lives.  To date, MOM has raised $75,000 for its charities and touched thousands of lives through its annual 5K run/walk in Royal Oak.

                                      Sincerely,                              
                                      The Gail Boledovich Family
                                      Paul, Lisa, Trisha, & Julie

If you are interest in publishing a story about
 Mind Over Matter and/or the MOM Race,
please contact Audra Quinn at publicist@MOMrace.org