Gospel singer Denno, best known for his inspiring vocals and heartfelt message of faith, is teaming up with Dr. Michael J. Freeland Jr., a globally celebrated author, speaker, and humanitarian, to raise awareness about Milroy’s Disease; a rare and often misunderstood condition that has silently impacted families across Kenya.
The collaboration comes under the Mental Real-Off State Global Initiative, a platform founded by Dr. Freeland to champion mental health, resilience, and social empowerment.
The partnership will not only shine a light on Milroy’s Disease but also address the stigma surrounding invisible illnesses and mental health struggles.
“When Dr. Freeland reached out about the Mental Real-Off State campaign, I felt an instant connection,” said Denno. “It’s not just about awareness, it’s about giving a voice to those who live with invisible struggles, whether it’s mental health or rare diseases like Milroy’s.”
Dr. Freeland, who has lived with Milroy’s Disease himself, brings a deeply personal perspective to the cause.
The condition, a chronic lymphatic disorder that causes swelling, pain, and mobility challenges, has seen him undergo numerous surgeries and years of medical management. Yet, he has turned his pain into purpose.
“I draw directly from my own struggles, showing that genuine healing and significant growth are achievable,” Dr. Freeland told Pulse. “Denno is also a beautiful story on his own. Many are drawn not just to his powerful music, but to his resilience. This is why we are working together.”
Through the Mental Real-Off State Global Initiative, the duo aims to use art, music, and storytelling as tools for healing and education. Their first major awareness effort will coincide with the Mental Real-Off State Conference, a signature event that convenes global thought leaders, civic changemakers, and humanitarian figures.
The conference celebrates those making a difference through the Global Mental Real-Off State Award, spotlighting acts of compassion and resilience around the world.
For Dr. Freeland, this partnership in Kenya is part of a broader mission to build Mental Real-Off State hubs across Africa, starting in Nairobi and expanding into rural regions. His work in the country has already extended to issues such as gender-based violence and female genital mutilation (FGM), where he collaborates with local advocates to drive change.
Denno, who rose to fame with his hit Mbona, says this project has given his artistry a new sense of
direction. “Many people in Kenya have never heard of Milroy’s Disease, yet there are families quietly dealing with it,” he shared. “Through music and conversation, we want to open hearts and minds — to let people know that early diagnosis and support can make all the difference.
As a person living with a visual disability, Denno says he relates deeply to those battling conditions society often overlooks.
“As someone living with a disability, I understand how society can misunderstand you or overlook your pain,” he said. “That’s why I’m using my platform to speak for others to show that challenges don’t define us; they refine us.”
