Page 10 - Florida Sentinel 1-22-16 Edition

Local
Mental Health Support Group Created From Tragedy
Tampa’s Last Piccadilly Restaurant Closes
PICCADILLY’S RESTAURANT
AARON ROBINSON February 10, 1983 --- April 4, 2014
BY IRIS B. HOLTON Sentinel City Editor
Nearly two years ago, at the age of 30, Aaron Keith Robinson died during a psychotic episode on April 4, 2014. Now, in the wake of that tragedy, his mother, Attorney Pamela Robinson, has created a support organization for the caregivers of people battling mental ill- ness.
“I feel that if I had a support system when I was going through it with my son, then I would have understood it better. That’s why I want to help others because I’ve been there and I know what’s involved in it. I really feel that we are going to make a difference,” Attorney Robin- son said.
She plans to hold the first support group meeting of Aaron’s House on Wednesday, January 27th, at 3030 N. Rocky Point Drive, W, Suite 150.
Attorney Robinson said depression, bi- polar disorders, autism, OCD, and other mental illnesses are common in our community. But, there is a stigma attached to mental illness.
“People back up when you talk about mental illness. They don’t react the same as they do with someone with cancer. Our vision is to
ATTORNEY PAMELA ROBINSON ... Founder and
Director of Aaron’s House
create a world where mental illness is as ac- cepted and embraced as any chronic illness, and where those affected by the illness are provided with necessary tools and support. I’m really ex- cited. I feel we’re going to make a difference,” she said.
Although the support group is targeting care- givers, Atty. Robinson said no one will be turned away. A psychologist will be in atten- dance. She further said anyone with someone struggling with mental illness is welcome to at- tend the event.
A Tampa native, Atty. Robinson graduated from the University of South Florida with a B. S. Degree in English Literature. She continued her education at Florida State University, Col- lege of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor Degree.
She was employed at the Public Defender’s Office, Fourth Judicial Circuit, in Jacksonville, for 10 years before returning home and opening her own practice.
Aaron’s House provides support for parents, caregivers, and family members of people diag- nosed with bipolar disorder and depression.
For additional information call (813) 341-3079. Anyone wishing to attend the group session should RSVP at www.aaronrobinsoninc.org.
The last Piccadilly Restau- rant, 11810 North Dale Mabry in Tampa has served its last meal this past Sun- day.
Management did not com- ment on why the restaurant closed or the number of em- ployees that are now unem- ployed.
The Louisiana-based restaurant operated at the North Dale Mabry location
for 16 years. Other locations in the area have closed in re- cent years. Those include restaurants at WestShore Plaza Mall, Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, and in Brandon, a location that operated for 21 years.
According to Piccadilly’s website, they still operate 51 restaurants in the United States, mostly in the south- east, and three in Florida.
PAGE 10-A FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2016