Gala held for 25th anniversary of Mental Health Association of New York City

NEW YORK (WABC) -- We talk freely about nearly everything these days, our ailments and diseases, but not about mental health and mental illness.

Wednesday night, Bill Ritter hosted a gala talking about mental illness in an effort to try to change the dialogue.

It is the 25th anniversary of the Mental Health Association of New York City.

The gala hopes to shine a light on an issue too long buried in darkness and the closet.

There were some amazing and personal stories of mental illness and overcoming it.

New York Giants player Brandon Marshall and New York City First Lady Chirlane McCray were also honored.