This is the end — that’s what Mark Henick told himself when, at 15 years old, he tried to take his own life. He was saved by a stranger who happened to be at the right place at the right time. This week, in honour of Bell Let’s Talk Day, Mark hosted the man who saved his life on his podcast to share their story about the night that changed their lives forever.
After years of sharing his story on stage, Mark started his podcast, “So Called Normal”,” to turn the spotlight onto others to unravel their encounters with struggle and resiliency. The result is a deep dive into the inspiring lives of people who have persevered. He has hosted celebrities, like Rosie O’Donnell and Glenn Close, to top figures and unsung heroes in the mental health industry.
In a special four-part series posted this week, Mark along with Mike Richey, the man who saved his life at 15 years old, come together in an emotional interview, to tell both sides of the story that binds them together.
In the first part, Mark shares the moments and experiences that led him to the bridge that night, prepared to take his own life.
In the second part, Mark sits down with Mike to find out how he came to be at that specific bridge that night and why he decided to help.
In part three, Mark shares his quest to try to find Mike, who he only knew at the time as “the man in the light brown jacket” and where Mike went after rescuing him so many years before.
Lastly, Mark and Mike share the emotional story of their first meeting and what it was like for Mark to thank him and show him the life he was able to make for himself before of Mike’s courage to take action that night.
Mark Henick has dedicated his life from an early age to opening minds and creating change. His talks are informed by his direct experience with stigma and the mental health care system, and he brings his diverse and unique perspective to every audience as someone who has been a patient, a professional, a policy influencer, and a public figure in the mental health system.
Interested in learning more about Mark and what he can bring to your next event? Email us at [email protected].