Rep. Renny Cushing, D-Hampton, died Monday from stage four prostate cancer.

Social Justice Crusader Rep. Renny Cushing of Hampton Has Died

By WANDA DURYEA and BEATRICE COULTER,

founders of Advocates for Ethical Mental Health Treatment

We at Advocates for Ethical Mental Health Treatment are saddened by the loss of our dear friend Renny Cushing.

He was a tireless advocate when it came to the Secure Psychiatric Unit and its issues. We worked closely with him. As the planning for the new forensic hospital continues, let’s remember the man who fought tirelessly for the forgotten population of mentally ill individuals in the prison.

In honor of his selfless work to provide those individuals with dignity and respect let us honor his memory. We at AEMHT would very much like to see this new hospital named in his honor. It would not exist without him.

We believe this will allow his legacy and work to live on. It will serve as a reminder never to quit, even in the face of continued defeat, for ultimately it did happen.

We ask that you contact your representative and endorse this suggestion. He earned it, when no one else had the courage to speak about SPU. Let’s make this happen.

Renny, dear friend we will miss you.

Wanda Duryea and Beatrice Coulter