Mental Health Recovery Support for Paul Garner

Hey y’all. I’m Alex, Paul Garner’s partner of almost six years. Paul does not like to ask for help, but he needs our support right now. Paul has given so much to our community and it’s time for us to pour some back into him.

As you might know, Paul has been through a lot in the last decade. Paul has been spied on by police and was a plaintiff in a federal lawsuit against the City because of this. He suffered second and third-degree burns trying to stop someone from setting himself on fire who also intended to harm others. He’s fought for police reforms, moral budgets, public transit, ways to address housing & homelessness, educated thousands of Memphis youth on their rights when interacting with police, and more. Though Paul has done incredible work for our community, this work can be taxing on your mind, body, and spirit and he’s faced a lot of scrutiny from the powers that be.

Paul is transitioning out of doing this work in a professional capacity to pursue what he loves—making art.

As a first step in this new journey, he has decided to seek treatment for his mental health. Right now, he’s in a facility where he is able to process and work through his PTSD, anxiety, and trauma and begin healing. His insurance covers most of the costs but, unfortunately, we have to pay a pretty hefty deductible of $6,000. That’s healthcare in America, y’all.

We’re reaching out to request your support so that Paul doesn’t have to worry about this financial burden as he transitions out of this work. We would be so grateful for any support you can offer. We’re excited about Paul taking this step to prioritize himself and focus on his healing.