My Search for Safety—and the Discovery of Hero Link®

An AI-Integrated Emotional Wellness Approach to Technology and Human Presence

By Mark D. Lerner, Ph.D.

Mental Health Director, Hero Link

Chairman, The National Center for Emotional Wellness

Principal Consultant & Creator, AI-Integrated Emotional Wellness

Recently, while having breakfast in a diner, I experienced a medical emergency—I couldn’t speak. I knew exactly what I was thinking and what I wanted to say, but I couldn’t get the words out—blocking.

Suspecting a potential stroke, I was transported to the hospital, where I was informed that I likely experienced a “TIA”—a Transient Ischemic Attack, a "mini-stroke," a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain that causes stroke-like symptoms. A second similar episode in the emergency room led to hospitalization.

My experience, combined with the emergence of other symptoms—including resting tremor, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, fatigue, and softening of speech—prompted neurological evaluations. I was ultimately told that I likely had Parkinson’s disease. Fortunately, treatment with Sinemet produced a dramatic improvement when it was “on”—working—which further supported the diagnosis. The most unsettling symptom for me, however, was the loss of balance—a frequent sensation of falling backward. It forced me to confront a frightening question: What would happen if I lost my balance, fell, and once again was unable to speak?

I began searching online for medical identification that would alert first responders to my condition.  That’s when I discovered Hero Link, a device and intuitive platform created to address this need. Hero Link utilizes secure NFC (near-field communication) technology, allowing any smartphone to instantly access a medical and wellness profile with a simple tap—no batteries, no apps, and no delay. Lightweight, durable wristbands and Hero Link cards store essential details like medical conditions, medications, allergies, emergency contacts, and even mental health resources—all immediately accessible to first responders during an emergency. Because the device requires no power or technical setup, it offers something invaluable: the assurance that if I can’t speak, my Hero Link can.

I’ve found that the value of Hero Link isn’t just medical—it’s psychological. It provides the sense of security I needed. This emotional dimension aligns directly with The National Center for Emotional Wellness's mission and reflects my ongoing work in AI-Integrated Emotional Wellness (AIEW).

AIEW addresses the intersection of artificial intelligence’s cognitive capabilities and the complexity of human emotion. At its core lies a simple but essential principle: while technology can provide accessible, timely strategies and tools, it will never replace genuine human presence. If you’ve read other articles on the National Center’s website, you’ll recognize my consistent emphasis on the value of practical, evidence-based support during moments of crisis—always in concert with compassionate, empathic, face-to-face human connection.

Hero Link, in its simplicity and intention, speaks directly to my heart. It represents what I believe matters most during times of crisis—that no one should feel unheard or alone when they're unable to speak for themselves. Beyond physical safety, Hero Link supports emotional stability by helping people feel known and understood. In moments of emergent need, Hero Link becomes a voice—bridging critical information with human presence that brings comfort and connection when it's needed most.

For anyone living with a condition that can compromise communication or mobility, Hero Link is more than a device: it’s a promise of accessible information and human connection when moments matter most.

Hero Link was designed with emotional and physical needs in mind; it doesn’t replace human care—it empowers it.

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