Olympic Runner, Advocate, Author And Former Escort To Address Hundreds At 11/24 San Diego Luncheon

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 11, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Lori J. Butler, Executive Director of International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF) announced that Suzy Favor Hamilton, will speak at the kick-off luncheon of the Stigma Buster's annual charity run in the 2016 Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Marathon. The complimentary luncheon is open by RSVP to supporters and interested community members and will be November 24, 2015 at Dave and Buster's at 2931 Camino Del Rio N, San Diego, CA 92108.

The lunch event is a precursor to Hamilton's half marathon run in the January 17, 2016 Carlsbad Marathon to support the Stigma Buster's team and others running to raise funds and awareness for bipolar disorder. Hamilton, whose story is told in her recently released book and memoir, Fast Girl – A Life Spent Running from Madness, is determined to raise awareness, provide understanding, and offer inspiration to others coping with their own challenges.

The former middle distance Olympic runner will speak about her battle with mental illness, and how mania not only controlled and compelled her in competition, but also in life. As a three-time Olympian she was the darling of American track and field. An outstanding runner, a major sports apparel spokesperson, and a happily married wife, she was the model for an active, healthy, and wholesome life. Her perfect facade masked a dark truth: manic depression and bipolar disorder that drove her obsession to perform and win.  

After a misdiagnosis and a recommendation for medication that only exacerbated her mania and hypersexuality Hamilton embarked on a new path, and assumed a new identity as Kelly a Las Vegas escort. Unable to keep her double life a secret forever--she finally got the proper medical help she needed scoring her most important victory of all—reclaiming her life from the ravages of an untreated mental illness.    

The mission of IBPF is to improve understanding and treatment of bipolar disorder through research; to promote care and support resources for individuals and caregivers; and to erase stigma through education.

IBPF envisions wellness, dignity and respect for people living with bipolar disorder. For additional information or to access resources see: http://www.ibpf.org. 

Reservations for the November 24 free lunch event are required by contacting Heather Zupin at 858-764-2496 or [email protected].

SOURCE International Bipolar Foundation