Joey’s Story
My brother, Joseph Gullo, BSN, RN, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder as a young adult after being treated for ADHD in childhood. Throughout his life, he pursued every available treatment—medications, inpatient care, and outpatient therapy—with incredible determination. Some treatments helped briefly, but many came with harsh side effects or limited benefit. Despite his relentless efforts, the emotional and physical toll, combined with the lack of accessible mental health resources, became overwhelming. After a previous attempt, Joey tragically ended his life.
Among his greatest stressors was the financial burden of getting treatment for his condition. Though we reassured him of his financial stability, Joey was deeply troubled by the mounting debt from frequent hospitalizations- some voluntary, others during crisis. He often hesitated to seek help because of the cost, even when he knew he needed it. Each discharge brought difficulty readjusting, straining his relationships, deepening his depression, and affecting his ability to work or feel whole.
Joey's passing left a profound void. But in our grief, my wife Kate and I chose to honor his legacy by helping others navigate this journey. We created The Joey Gullo Fund Inc., a New Jersey-based nonprofit, to be a centralized resource hub for individuals with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. This website is a place to find mental health services, community support, and hope without the added burden of searching for help in the middle of a crisis.
Our mission is simple: no one should feel alone, lost, or financially trapped because of their diagnosis. We aim to remove barriers and offer guidance to those struggling, just as Joey would have wanted.
Thank you for supporting this cause. We know Joey is smiling down on us from heaven, knowing that his struggle has inspired a lifeline for others.
With gratitude,
Greg Gullo Jr., MSN, RN, PCCN, CNML
President and Founder, The Joey Gullo Fund Inc.