“I wanted to turn a tragedy into something that could help others,” says Shelley Rullo of Charlestown, New Hampshire.  Shelley’s son, Dana Rullo, committed suicide on October 20th, 2000 at the age of 16.  In memory of Dana, and in an effort to increase the awareness of juvenile bipolar disorder, Shelley organized a Rollerskate-a-thon on the anniversary of Dana’s death.

Friends and community members provided overwhelming support for the event.  Over 50 teens from Dana’s school put up flyers, obtained sponsors and wore armbands while skating in memory of Dana.  Businesses provided refreshments, space and other forms of support.  The Roll-a-thon raised almost $750 which was generously donated to The Balanced Mind Foundation.

The Balanced Mind Foundation sincerely thanks Shelley Rullo and Dana’s family, friends, and community members for their support.  We commend Shelley for her strength of courage to face a horrific loss and create an event that raises the awareness of bipolar disorder so that others can become aware of the implications of this serious, but treatable disorder.