The Shocking Truth about my Health

  

      As many of you know, I have struggled with Bipolar Disorder for over 25 years. I have seen many doctors, taken many more medications, been hospitalized 5 times and attempted suicide 4 times. This illness has wreaked havoc in my life and the lives of those closest to me. I have lost friends, relationships and a job because of this illness.

      After so many years of struggle, I have decided to try a treatment that has polarized the medical community since it's inception in the 1930's: ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) or as it's most commonly referred to "Shock Treatment."

      I have made this decision after consulting with my Doctors, my husband, my family as well as reading extensively on the history, method and side effects of this treatment.

      I share this with you for a variety of reasons: 
          1) I ask for your prayers (if you pray), your support and your love 
          2) I want to put a face on mental illness and particularly on the struggles and frankly   the prehistoric state of medical care for the mentally ill 
          3) I want you to remember me as I was and celebrate the me I hope to become.

      Please know this treatment is NOT the treatment as depicted in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," where poor Randle McMurphy is electrically lobotomized as a punishment. This is a humane, medically controlled procedure performed under general anesthesia that has saved thousands of lives over many decades. In fact, statistically it is more effective than any other psychiatric treatment for the severely depressed.

      If all my medical clearances come through, I will be receiving my first treatment on Monday, October 30th. I plan to share my experiences here.

Thank you in advance for your support. Feel free to leave comments or questions for me. I am an open book where my mental illness is concerned because I want the stigma to STOP and I want those who are suffering to get the help they need without fear or shame.