Stopping the stigma of schizophrenia

The event raises money for rehabilitation, education and support programs for people with schizophrenia.

Volunteers with the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta are gearing up for an important fundraiser next weekend to raise awareness about the disorder.

Schizophrenia affects about 1 percent of the global population and is considered a common disorder.

The disorder affects the brain and can alter the person’s perception and behavior.

Its cause is unknown but it is treatable and many patients lead regular lives through treatment and support groups.

Michelle Misurelli used to hear voices and was very paranoid but has since been sucessfully treated for schizophrenia.

Misurelli takes daily medication which allows her to work part time, raise her daughter, and live a fulfilling life.

In spite of her success, the stigma and myths surrounding schizophrenia persist.

“The first myth is its split personality. It's absolutely not split personality I don't have multiple personalities, I have one personality, but my personality is affected, my cognition is affected and my logic and reason,” said Misurelli.

More myths about schizophrenia:

The Schizophrenia Society of Alberta offers a variety of support and education programs for patients and their families.

The Open Minds Walk & Run gets underway on Saturday August 25 in Calgary,Camrose, Lethbridge and Red Deer and in Edmonton and Medicine Hat on September 22, 2012.

Participants can run the 10k or 5k course or stroll the 2.5k fun walk route.

In Calgary, the festivities begin at 8:00 a.m. at North Glenmore Park with breakfast and registration and the 10k run starts at 10:00 a.m.

After the races, there will be a reception and medal presentation along with a silent auction and entertainment.

For more information on the event, visit the Open Minds website.