"Conflict and struggles are moments that define us."
Pete Feigal knows a thing or two about conflict and struggles. For the past thirty years he's battled depression. Ten years ago he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, Pete talks openly about his trials. As a volunteer for the Hennepin county National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, he speaks three or four times each week about mental illness.
Literary character Don Quixote provides inspiration for Pete.
"Don Quixote spent his life tilting at windmills. He loses every battle but he never gives up. He saw the world as it should be."
Pete named the theater company that he founded after Quixote. The "Tilting at Windmills Theater Company" provides an outlet for people with mental illnesses to share their experiences with others through art. After many of the productions, panel discussions take place between the audience and mental health professionals.
This summer, Pete was named the Minnesota Disabled Artist of the year by the Very Special Arts of Minnesota organization.
*Pete has designated $1100 to People Incorporated