Together, We Will Be…
It is a rainy Saturday evening. I am curled up on the couch quietly reading the first print proof of our book. I am quite literally holding the weight of the last two years in my hands. Our story between two covers, yet so much still unwritten. I reflect a bit on where we have been, where we are now, and where we are headed. Truth be told, the only question I can answer (as described in the book) is where we have been.
Mental illness is rarely rational or predictable. You cannot rationalize something that is irrational, nor can I advise how our daughter’s illness might present this afternoon, tomorrow, or a year from now. Nearly two years later, from the initial onset, our daughter continues to brave anxiety, a panic disorder and trauma…this does not make us experts…it simply means we understand. So, WHY did we write our book?
We understand you and the challenging journey your family is on. We know you desperately search for answers, treatment, and a miracle for your child or adolescent. Our family understands the exhaustion felt by simply trying to protect your loved one every hour of every day from both themselves and others who might shame them. We recognize how frustrating the questions that do not have any answers are or the need of others to rationalize something we have learned to accept (not because we understand), but because we must move forward and continue living. We know how alone you feel (despite a community of friends and family) simply because mental illness is so misunderstood…even by the experts we desperately pray have answers.
But despite all the challenges, trust we are all strong and empowered to make a difference. We are empowered to make a difference and influence change…for our child…for our family…for us. Similarly, empower your child to be proud, strong, and compassionate. Leave shame at the door — it does not have a place here…never has…never will.
Find comfort and strength in knowing you are not alone, and neither is your loved one. We are standing beside you, even though you might not know us or see us. Life always goes on…and collectively…so must we.
Together, we will be the force of change that is so desperately needed for all that brave a mental illness.
