Meet A Member! Chris Wright

Chris has been a member of Choices since 1995. He's gotten many nicknames throughout his time here, two of his favorite being "porcupine", because of his kind nature but willingness to stick up for his friends, and "curly". Chris says he has many layers. The Chris you see daily is a goofy, fun loving guy, but when you peel back those layers he says he is also "vulnerable, frightened and human". He enjoys many games and activities. His favorite activity at Choices is being part of the "sport board" that he runs with his friend Kevin. He also enjoys other hobbies including Monopoly, Kismet, Skippo and his play station.

Chris has recently moved apartments, away from his old home in East Akron. He said it wasn't always the greatest neighborhood but to him it was home and he genuinely loved living there.

Chris has also had the opportunity to serve on the advisory council as the Secretary to Charles R., who has since passed away. He has worked with OCATS and talked to many Parole Officers, Fire Fighters and Police Officers about mental health and signs on how to spot it.

Early in 2020 Chris fell extremely ill. He could barely stand and was weak all over. He gives credit to his Choices family for encouraging him to go to the hospital. It turns out he had blood clots, pneumonia and the flu, Chris stayed in the hospital for three weeks battling this sickness. He credits his Choices family for "saving his life" and wants others to know "never procrastinate on your health. If you're not sure, get checked". He said he received an outpouring of love from Choices members throughout this time and still has the card that was sent to him in the hospital.

The last thing Chris wants us all to know is, "if God can forgive us for our sins, who are we to not forgive ourselves?"