Voices of Care Summit: A National Schizophrenia Caregiver Experience

A Virtual Summit for Family Caregivers Living the Journey Together

Because no one should navigate schizophrenia caregiving alone.

Supporting Resources

Books & Blogs from Our Panelists

Supporting Resources

Books & Blogs from Our Panelists

Why Attend the Voices of Care Summit

Living with schizophrenia affects the entire family—but caregivers are too often left without the support, education, or community they need.

At the Voices of Care Summit, you’ll hear firsthand how other families have navigated:

  • Managing the day-to-day realities of schizophrenia 
  • Reducing isolation and caregiver burnout 
  • Navigating stigma within families and communities 
  • Building stronger partnerships with healthcare providers 
  • Finding hope through shared experiences 
  • Supporting recovery while caring for yourself 

Most importantly, you’ll discover that you’re not alone.

Featured Fireside Conversation

Finding Hope Through Storytelling

Marvell Adams Jr.
Chief Executive Officer, Caregiver Action Network

in conversation with Atsuko Okatsuka
Comedian, writer, and mental health advocate

Known for her acclaimed stand-up specials and unique storytelling, Atsuko Okatsuka has openly shared how mental illness has shaped her family and life. In this candid conversation, she and Marvell will explore how humor, honesty, and vulnerability can help reduce stigma while creating more compassionate conversations around schizophrenia and family caregiving.

Special Guest Conversation

Sarah LaBrie
Television writer and author of the acclaimed memoir No One Gets to Fall Apart, soon to be adapted for film.

Sarah will discuss her family’s experience navigating serious mental illness, the healing power of storytelling, and what caregivers can learn from sharing their own journeys.

Peer Voices Panel

Learning From Those Who’ve Been There

Moderated by Amera Bilal
Vice President of Programs & Policy
Caregiver Action Network

Hear directly from caregivers and advocates whose lived experiences span different communities, backgrounds, and caregiving journeys. Together, they’ll share honest conversations about:

  • What they wish they had known earlier 
  • The emotional realities of caregiving 
  • Supporting recovery while maintaining hope 
  • Navigating healthcare systems 
  • Building resilience through community 
  • Advice they would give other caregivers today 

Audience members will have opportunities to participate through live questions and interactive discussion.

Chrisa Hickey

Caregiver and mental health advocate (Ephraim, WI)

Sarah LaBrie

Author and caregiver (Los Angeles, CA)

Nicole Gillen

Author and family caregiver (Reston, VA)

Maria Case

Founder, Kompashion; caregiver and advocate (Los Angeles, CA)

Kristy Stonehill

Executive Director, NAMI Rappahannock; caregiver and advocate

Brianna Ryan-Smolinski

Sibling caregiver supporting her brother (Schenectady, New York)

What Makes This Summit Different?

Unlike traditional educational webinars, Voices of Care is built around peer learning.

🧡 You’ll hear real stories—not just clinical presentations.

🧡 You’ll connect with caregivers facing similar challenges.

🧡 You’ll gain practical strategies that families are using every day.

🧡 You’ll become part of a growing community committed to changing how we talk about schizophrenia and supporting one another along the way.

Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for:

  • Family caregivers 
  • Parents 
  • Siblings 
  • Adult children 
  • Spouses and partners 
  • Friends providing care 
  • Individuals supporting someone living with schizophrenia 
  • Mental health advocates 
  • Community organizations 
  • Healthcare professionals interested in family-centered care

Whether you’re new to caregiving or have years of experience, you’ll find valuable insights and meaningful connection.

This is made possible through the support of Bristol Myers Squibb and Teva Pharmaceutical.

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals

Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for the more than 63 million family caregivers across the nation. From parents of children with complex health needs to spouses, friends, and adult children caring for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, or Alzheimer’s, CAN supports the full spectrum of caregiving families. Through free education, peer support, and resources, CAN empowers caregivers nationwide to provide care with strength, resilience, and hope.