The 1996 inaugural recipient was Dr. Bill Hearne for his inspiring assistance in establishing ARAFMI (WA) Inc.

Twenty years ago, an announcement appeared in the newsletter of the Mental Health Association that Dr. Bill Hearne would be speaking and invited any interested persons to start a group (which was, later, to become ARAFMI). About seventy interested people attended, if I remember, all bringing our fears, grief and guilt with us, but hoping for some relief at last.

Dr Hearne stood up. Some of us had not met him before; he stood tall and straight and spoke clearly and directly with a statement I will never forget...

"I want you all to know that there is nothing that you have done, nor haven't done nor should have done that would have made any difference to your sick relative. It was all inevitable, so I want you all to get rid of those guilt feelings before we start."

I, as a mother, heaved a sigh of relief. It was the kindest and most positive thing I had heard for several years. My guilt was removed from that moment. It was the beginning of my learning experience in coping and coming to terms with Mental Illness.

Betty Rebakis
ARAFMI Life Member

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