I grew up in Malaysia, where mental illness is heavily stigmatized. When I first opened up about my depression, I was told, “Don’t worry, you’ll feel better tomorrow.” But healing doesn’t happen through silence.

After moving to the U.S., I faced new obstacles — and new opportunities. I met my future husband, who lives with mental health challenges, and I became his main advocate. In 2012, just months before our wedding, I was in a traumatic car accident that left me permanently disabled and diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety. My whole world was turned upside-down. Not long after, my husband experienced a mental health episode and was hospitalized.

With no car and no one to help, I took four buses every day to visit him. I saw firsthand how broken the healthcare system can be — overmedication, disjointed care, and a lack of cultural understanding.

That’s when I decided to speak up, not just for us, but for others like us. I joined Buckelew’s Board of Directors because Buckelew is our community’s strongest advocate for inclusive mental health care. Buckelew supports and empowers people like me and my husband, creating safe spaces where individuals are seen and heard – because real healing starts with compassion, not judgment.

My advocacy is grounded in lived experience. I’ve survived abuse. I am a two-time suicide attempt survivor. I’ve faced trauma that’s invisible to the eye, shaped by years of silence and subservience. Together with Buckelew, we’re building a path forward for others who share similar journeys.

Mental health doesn’t look the same for everyone, but no one should have to walk the path alone. If you’re struggling, know this: you’re not alone.