FRANKLIN
A Franklin woman wants to continue educating people about mental illness, especially when sexual abuse is a factor. Lynnora Sumblin, who says she speaks from experience, has arranged to give a free program about the topic at the Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Library from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10. That date is also designated as World Mental Health Day by the World Health Organization.

As previously reported, Sumblin has been open in telling people she was a victim of incest as a child. This abuse, she believes, triggered what was later diagnosed as bi-polar disorder. That, in turn, had her going to a mental hospital while still in college, and later “in and out of hospitals” over the years.

During her treatment, Sumblin had a light bulb moment and realized the necessity of taking her medication and staying on it. But one of the side effects has been weight gain.

“I don’t like taking it, but I’d rather be heavy out [of hospitals], then thin and in,” she said. “Mentally, I just feel better.”

Nevertheless, the medicine has helped stabilize Sumblin to deal with the disorder and live fully.

An example of how she’s thriving is the recent founding of her organization, Ever Delighting Advocacy Center, which is dedicated as a counseling center for people with mental illness or who have endured sexual abuse or violence.

“I want to do something,” Sumblin said. “I want to give back to the community.”

Though she acknowledges the medicine as a healing factor, it’s her faith in God that’s number one in helping her to get through difficult occasions.

“I trust God in my life. It gives me purpose,” Sumblin said. “If you don’t believe in God, believe in something higher than yourself. If it’s just you, then there’s no accountability.”

The theme of her program on Friday will be, “I have Bi-polar. Now what?”

This will be a platform for people to learn more about the disorder, whether they or someone they know is enduring it. She’ll have guest speakers, and city representatives also have been invited to participate.

Nurturing her counseling center is another personal goal, and Sumblin’s seeking non-profit status for it. She’s raising money, and is donating profits from her autobiography, “My Stolen Innocence,” toward making a home for the center.

Another fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6, and will feature local musical talent.

For more information about the organization, or to donate, contact Sumblin at 742-2391. You can visit her on Facebook. Anyone who wants to donate can mail checks to P.O. Box 38, Franklin, VA, 23851, or go to www.GoFundMe.com/d41780 or visit www.mystoleninnocence.org.