A Statement from the Foundation President
Saddened by the loss of our friend and benefactor
Marylou Whitney

The Mental Health Foundation is mourning the passing of Marylou Whitney - a friend, benefactor and dedicated advocate for better mental health awareness and help. 

Mrs. Whitney, along with her good friend and MHF Board Member Matilda Cuomo, co-chaired several events to benefit the Mental Health Foundation in Saratoga Springs over the years and provided both inspiration and financial support to advance our cause. It was Whitney, along with her husband, John Hendrickson, who suggested using the phrase “It’s Okay to Talk About It” which became the basis of the Foundation’s educational efforts and grant program focused towards adolescents and young adults. 

John Hendrickson, former NYS First Lady & MHF Board Member Matilda Raffa Cuomo, Marylou Whitney
and former NYS Governor Mario M. Cuomo at a Foundation benefit in Saratoga Springs, August 20, 2012.  

What’s most important is that Whitney was an extraordinary person who cared deeply about so many things and she had a very strong perspective about the challenges of Mental Health. Her legacy is the lives she touched in her relentless drive to make the world a better place. We are grateful for her friendship and support. 

Our deepest sympathy go out to her husband, John, and her family on this profound loss. She leaves an enormous void. 

The Mental Health Foundation will continue to honor her through our efforts to bring people together in common cause for better understanding, policy and outcomes.

Stephen Madarasz
President
Board of Directors