Metro Man: Post Script To Last Month's Column

  When I first tried to write last month’s column on my experience with depression, my wife had to help me finish. Even then when I submitted it to Managing Executive Editor, Susie Soper, she suggested some changes saying the initial draft was awfully "raw."

I had started the column by saying "this is a cry for help." The truth was I was still in the throes of depression. With Susie’s input Sylvia and I continued working on the piece until we passed a deadline to go to press and Susie had to run with what she had.

So the final version of the article never made it into the paper. I subsequently sent copies of the finished piece to many on my email list. So far I have heard from hundreds of people who either read the published version or the final one.

Their compassionate responses have been extremely gratifying, reassuring, and appreciated. You would not believe how many readers mentioned their own dealings with depression or that of family or friends. Many thanked me for my courage. The truth is this wasn’t an act of courage on my part; I felt compelled to speak out. And I found doing so very liberating.

Most importantly I hope what I had to say will be of help to others. And I continue to be available to anyone who wishes to talk about this subject. In addition, I have had conversations with several mental health organizations that deal with depression about helping them raise funds for the treatment of this illness. I am very excited about the prospect of doing this.

Email me if you would like a copy of the final version of my column. If you did not see the published version it can be found at www.atlantaintownpaper.com/archives.php.