I spoke last night with a group in a local library. The more I share our story, the more I understand the statistic that one in four families deals with mental illness. I meet many of them.
- I hear the heartache that accompanies them on their journey.
- I witness the deep love they have for their family member.
- I see the pride they have when their loved one manages it with success.
- I see the hope that fills them when they see baby steps of improvement.
- I witness courage, both in the families and those who are affected.
These families inspire me to continue to spread the word that mental illness is a brain disorder, not a character flaw. I want to share that recovery is an option. I want to share that it’s hard for the families and those who are affected.
- I dream of a day when mental illness is discussed the way we talk about diabetes, or cancer.
- I dream of a day when our culture reacts to mental illness with the same compassion and support that happens when a family deals with cancer or other traumatic events.
- I dream of a day when a blood test reveals the exact medication needed for the brain to function properly.
- I dream of a day when we have adequate doctors, therapists, and counselors to assist those who need their expertise.
- I dream of a day when every family I meets shares a success story with me.
Until then, I stay grateful for the health of my daughter.
- I’m grateful the doctors found the correct cocktail of medication that allows her to overcome the symptoms of schizophrenia. She works full-time, and I know she makes a difference in the lives of the people around her.
- I’m grateful that she understands her brain disorder and that she knows how to take care of her own health.
- I’m grateful to have my daughter back. Twelve years ago I feared the worst. I remember crying out, “I just want my daughter back.” I’ve met too many families whose loved one lost the battle, and I weep with them.
- I’m grateful for her recovery. Therefore, I want to shout it from the mountaintop – I want the world to know. The Lord walked beside me through our journey because I invited Him in to my day to day world. He helped me cope.
I live in gratitude.
- I’m grateful for the people who come to my presentations on mental illness.
- I’m grateful for those who support my work with a book purchase.
- I’m grateful for the people who share the book with their friends and families. It helps bring undertanding to those not affected.
- I’m grateful for those who take time to write a review. It helps keep our story in front of others.
- Last, but not least, I’m grateful to the publisher, Familius, for the publication of Broken Brain, Fortified Faith and offering it right now for at half-price for those who wish to share our journey.
Together, let’s make a difference. Thank you!
Virginia Pillars, Author 