The healthcare system in this country has always been wanting, and this is particularly the case for those who live with mental illness. For one Australian family, the Eggletons of Wagga, the strain has just become too much, and they have set up an organisation called the Metta Generation to financially support their son – who suffers from chronic bipolar disorder and needs constant care – and other youths with complex and high needs, with Australian music legend, You Am I frontman (and one of my idols) Tim Rogers as ambassador.

Of this young boy, a professional advised the Eggletons to “cut him loose and concentrate on [their] other children,” typifying the prevailing attitude towards young people with mental illnesses or those with complex needs, and highlighting the social struggles the Eggleton’s face. This is before we even consider financial troubles.

The Eggletons found a private programme with a high success rate to help their son, and though the cost is beyond their means, at $2,750 per week, it would be far too risky to remove him from the programme.

The Eggleton’s have thus far raised $15,795. The bill thus far is $68,750. An auction will be held on Friday, February 12^th at Wagga RSL Club, one of the prizes being a one-on-one songwriting class with Tim Rogers. I truly believe him to be one of Australia’s greatest – and most underrated – songwriters, and applaud him for not only offering his name and support to this organisation, but for also providing such an amazing prize. Reckon many other ten-time ARIA award winning artists would do that for a family in Wagga?

Tim Rogers has spoken frankly and publicly in the past about growing up with a mental illness, and trying to deal with anxiety and schizophrenic episodes as a teenager.

If you believe you or someone you know may be suffering from a mental illness, head to sane.org for help and advice, or see your GP.

Click here for more information on Metta Generation, and how to donate to this wonderful cause.