On behalf of the Alex Panton Foundation (APF), I wish to sincerely thank you for travelling overseas to the Cayman Islands for one week to share your story to approximately 1500 students across 4 local high schools; a group of inmates in our local male prison; and members of the public in 2 community presentations.
As a youth mental health organisation [whose mission is to improve the mental health of children and young adults in the Cayman Islands through advocacy, awareness and support], the APF is appreciative of your impactful message which helps listeners to understand the sensitive relationship between substance abuse and mental health challenges.
I commend the professionalism in your ability to adapt to the various audiences during your time here. When speaking to the youth, your open and transparent presentation was able to keep them engaged and attentive. Though your story includes difficult content on the challenges you faced because of addiction, it was clear that they respected your honesty. You were able to place yourself in their shoes, acknowledge the likelihood that there were young people listening who could relate to your experiences, and inspire them to fulfil their full potential through making good choices. It spoke volumes that on several occasions, there were students who requested the opportunity to speak with you one-on-one afterwards.
I would be pleased to recommend you to schools or community groups who are interested in hosting a speaker who will provide an honest and thought-provoking testimony of the dangers of drug and alcohol addiction, and who will encourage listeners to lean on their faith and support systems for the courage to ask for help.
Sincerely,
Erin Kaufman
Administrative Manager
Alex Panton Foundation