About The WINSOM Foundation
A Movement for Change
The WINSOM Foundation encourages people worldwide to embrace The What If Notion State of Mind (WINSOM) in their own lives. Our mission is to raise awareness about the devastating impact of undiagnosed mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders—on individuals, families, and communities.
My Story
First and foremost, I want to thank you for taking the time to read or listen to this. It means more than you know.
It is unfortunate that my journey to this point has been shaped by painful experiences, tragic events, and major setbacks. However, as Napoleon Hill said: "For every negative circumstance, there contains within it a seed of its positive equivalent." Today, I plant mine.
I am not here to claim expertise in mental health or substance abuse—that would be far from the truth. What I can do is share my story in the hope that it reaches those who may find themselves in the same downward spiral I was once trapped in. I know what it’s like to be blinded by my own struggles, to ignore my strength and perseverance, and to let pride keep me from seeking help.
Throughout this journey, I not only experienced deep personal suffering but also caused heartache for the people I love most. The harsh reality is that we often hurt those closest to us. Looking back at my past mindset—the thoughts, feelings, and justifications I once considered acceptable—I now see why this foundation is so necessary.
Success vs. Mental Health: A Dangerous Illusion
I also know firsthand how success and financial stability can create a false sense of well-being. Many people assume that if they are thriving professionally, their mental health must be fine. I made that mistake.
To be clear, I’m not saying that all successful or wealthy people struggle with mental health. What I am saying is that in high-stress environments—dealing with deadlines, quotas, competition, management pressures—or on the flip side, facing financial hardship and unemployment—it can be difficult to recognize when your mental health is suffering.
I’ve experienced both extremes. I’ve had public successes and failures, highs and lows. Ironically, it was my success that exposed internal struggles I didn’t even realize I had.
I tried to "fix my problems" in all the wrong ways. Each attempt failed, and before I knew it, I had fallen deeper into drug abuse. I wasn’t a complete disaster, so I convinced myself I was fine. I rode an emotional roller coaster—one moment feeling unstoppable, the next, completely broken. I used drugs as a coping mechanism, believing they helped me function as a business owner, partner, and family member. I didn’t want anyone to see me at my lowest, so I chalked it up to being an entrepreneur.
Lessons Learned
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you are one bad business decision away from losing everything—and one good decision away from success.
Another major realization was my misplaced priorities. I put business before family, believing that financial freedom would ultimately bring security to my loved ones. But I failed to understand the importance of balance, and that neglect contributed to my declining mental health.
It’s now clear to me that my struggles were deeply connected to an undiagnosed mood disorder, which played a significant role in my substance abuse. Thankfully, I am now receiving proper treatment for both. As J.K. Rowling once said: "Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life."
A New Beginning
I can’t turn back time, but I can use my experiences, insight, and business knowledge to create real solutions. That’s what The Winsom Foundation is about.
I am speaking out now because I want to be a beacon of light for those who are struggling—whether you are personally battling these issues or watching a loved one suffer. You are not alone. Resources exist. Help is available. And we can be part of that solution together.
My journey of rising from rock bottom begins now. I don’t have all the answers, but if my story resonates with you—if you share our vision and want to be part of this mission—please reach out. It’s time to build a team.
This is why I am going public. If you’re feeling lost, alone, broken, or hopeless, please know that there is a way forward.
Sharing my story is the hardest thing I’ve ever done—but I believe The WINSOM Foundation will bring hope, encouragement, and change to hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions, one day. That is why I am doing this.
Final Thoughts
"If you build it, they will come."
"If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to start, you will never begin."
Right now, The Winsom Foundation is in its early stages. Yes, I am currently incarcerated, but I am about to be released. This movement needs to be launched. The problems exist. And these solutions can help.
The seed has been planted, and the conditions are right. If you want to be part of this journey, we need your support.
📩 thewinsomfoundation@gmail.com
We’ve lost enough. Now it’s time to WINSOME!
Thank you for your time.
– Jose Francisco (Frankie) Perez
Inspiring moments: Our journey with The Winsom Foundation
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