Actor, local doctor share cause

As medical director at McLean Hospital, Dr. Blaise Aguirre of Lexington treats adolescents who engage in self-injurious behavior. He agreed to participate in actor Joey Pantoliano's documentary, "Hope's Angels," out of a shared desire to educate the public about mental illness. And after learning about Pantoliano's foundation, he wanted to help.

Aguirre recently hosted a fund-raiser that gathered more than $5,000 for No Kidding, Me Too!, a nonprofit organization that encourages people to openly discuss their mental illnesses.

Pantoliano, who has appeared in "The Sopranos," said he enjoyed chatting with Aguirre's 40 guests about his film.

CINDY CANTRELL