April 2, 2014
Dede
I'm happy to tell you I'm feeling better. Ever since I got moved I've been able to talk to people in their cells next to me. I'm still in solitary but having other people around me going through the same things helps me endure the time.
I've been exercising almost everyday so I believe this is helping my depression. I still am suffering side effects from all the medication they had me on such as having difficulty processing my thoughts. I feel like I have major writer's block sometimes. I also feel like I don't have feeling. I feel numb, but other than that I'm doing good. I'm starting to write poetry which is a good sign of progress.
Thanks for putting my letters on your blog. I have gotten letters and cards from various people that tell me they heard about me through your blog. These people have touched my life and given me inspiration to live my life. I no longer feel hopeless but I am struggling with my purpose.
I like to sing, it's what make me the most happy. I want to make people feel better through my music but ever since my accident with the psych-tech, I haven't been able to sing. This deeply affects my relationship with God because I like to sing worship songs to him. I think God is testing me to see if I really love Him or not. I do. I love God.
The support I've gotten from people has encouraged me to keep my faith and belief that God has a purpose for me. These letters come at a time when I'm down and out. The love and support I feel is making me want to give back to society all my love and dedication. The key to my turn around is taking it one day at a time. Taking the advice from you and everyone else. And believing that God has a purpose for me. I'm still not as close to God as I want to be. I'm praying to get closer to Him.
Pat sounds like he was a nice guy. I wish he were still around. I'm sorry for your loss. But I'm sure he would be proud of your advocacy for people with mental health issues. I know if it wasn't for you and all the letters I've gotten that I wouldn't be as positive as I am. Thank you.
I hope your mother has a happy 100th birthday. She must be a tough old lady. Enjoy your time with your grandchildren. Have fun getting ready for your mom's birthday. Keep plugging away on your book and blog. I pray you get lots of work done.
Until next time, have a blessed time. Thank you for the card. I appreciate you putting my letters on your blog. I pray you are well in Jesus name.
Love, Travis.
You can write to Travis at this address. Thank you
California Men's Colony State Prison
P.O. Box 8101
San Luis Obispos, CA 93409-8101
Travis Christian
CDCR#: bb8099
Cell #: B-1
4-18 Travis' mother writes: Hi Dede, Travis is still at Men's colony in San Luis Obispo. He is most likely going to be transferred, tomorrow, to the new Folsom prison in Sacramento. His lawyer's been trying to stop the move but, so far, it's still continuing. I visited Travis on Sunday and he was pretty down about going and very frightened. He's going to a level 4 180. It's the highest level. The only higher level is solitary confinement. Travis said, "It's for the most violent offenders." Once again, I fear for his life. The mail from Men's Colony will follow him to Folsom. When I get his new address, I'll send it to you. Thank you for being a friend and a light for my son. Kathy
Help Us Shatter The Silence
National Shattering Silence Coalition is collecting stories about people with serious mental illness who have encountered the criminal justice system and we will be sharing them for the National Stepping Up Day of Action on May 16th. This year we are showcasing stories that involve the criminal justice system and how it handles those with serious mental illness. By being brave enough to share your personal story or the story of a loved one, you are helping us to shatter the silence. You are encouraged to share pictures or videos of your loved ones with us as well. By telling our stories we shed light into the dark issues those living with serious mental illness face every day in America.
Your story is important, and we want to hear it.
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Thank you,
National Shattering Silence Coalition