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Richie McLean |
"Worldwide Jack of all Trades" |
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What 'Booklist' Magazine had to say about 'Recovered, not Cured' by Richard McLean |
| *Starred Review* The words in this small but mighty account verbalize the essence of mental illness, and McLean's graphic illustrations crank up the volume. The Australian's raw candor and stirring clarity in both words and images make this a rare nonfiction gem, with a power that grips the reader as if by the lapels. McLean's first recollections of paranoia come from adolescence, when he heard voices from the other side of the backyard fence. Soon he was picking up "messages" from automobile license plates, radios, and disembodied voices. Not unlike many who suffer from schizophrenia, to escape the torment of a constantly shifting reality, he self--medicated with the usual drugs of youth, alcohol and marijuana. Despite plunging ever deeper into mental illness, he managed to graduate from university, hold a job, and travel throughout Europe, thanks to the emotional support of family and friends, who often excused his bizarre episodes as personality quirks. Frequently at a loss to understand McLean, they nevertheless provided opportunities for him to conduct what he calls reality checks. The happy ending is that professional medical care has brought his illness under control, and he lives on his own. The price he pays is a life that is "less interesting" but offers hope for thousands who either suffer from mental illness or know someone who does. |
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| Donna Chavez |
| Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved |
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| Visit Richie's website, now, to find out more about this multi-talented McLean, his work and his struggle with mental illness. I've a feeling you'll be gone for some time! |
| Ian McLean |
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| LATEST... |
Dear Friends Family, and Colleagues,
In a day and a half I will be embarking on a journey to Montreal, Canada, for the North American release of my book, 'Recovered, Not Cured, a journey through schizophrenia'.
I will be having a three week exhibition of artwork from the book at www.gallerygora.com in Montreal.The official opening will be on Sept 18th from 6-9pm at the Gallery. Please feel welcome.
On Tuesday Sept 20th I will be speaking at a conference at McGill University, from 2-4pm. It will focus on my experience of schizophrenia, the holistics of recovery and the importance of creative arts therapy, as per my artwork.
There will be a vernissage and book signing on the 20th of September at the gallery also. I have had the wonderful support of my family and friends, Gallery Gora, and assorted colleagues, without whom this trip would not be possible, so thank you so much for making this trip possible.
I will also be touring local inpatient units in the mental health system, so I can gain an understanding of consumer participation in North America, and how we might benefit each other in terms of my role as consumer consultant at North West Area Mental Health Service. I look forward to liasing with as many people as possible in my passion in the mental health field.
It looks to be a most exciting trip, and I look forward to telling you all about it, or experiencing it with you!
I hope this message finds you all well, and say a little affirmation for me all will go well, which Im sure it will!
Up up and away! Remember to try to be the person you think your dog
thinks you are!
With best wishes,
Richie. |
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