Kathy Hegedus, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Rotary District 6290 was our esteemed guest and speaker today. She delivered an emotional and informative presentation about mental health in our families and reminded us that mental health was identified as a Rotary priority in 2023/2024 by Rotary International President Gordon McInally, whose focus was on creating hope in the world. Despite this difficult topic, Kathy delivered her presentation with compassion, grace, and wonderful moments of humor. Thank you, Kathy – you touched each and every one of us by showing us how to share our struggles and the importance of doing this as a gift to ourselves.
Kathy introduced us to her son, whom she lost to opioid addiction in 2021. Kathy informed us about kratom, an herbal substance that can be used as an antidote to opioid addiction, but still with addictive properties and overdose risks that could lead to death. She shared her deep grief and depression due to the loss of her son and then a battle with breast cancer. She helped us with how to have meaningful personal contact with those battling depression and anxiety. She lifted us up with her stories of how healing can come in the most unexpected ways. Kathy shared the importance of being empathetic, emotionally supportive, and a shoulder to lean on for our children. She encouraged us to educate ourselves about anxiety and depression and to check in often with loved ones who we know are struggling. She reminded us about the magic of Rotary – it’s the people! The power of personal contact is so important for all of us! And finally, a special reminder to all women to get your mammograms!