Dear Sooner Than Tomorrow Readers,
It’s Wednesday evening before Thanksgiving. I received a Thanksgiving card today from a reader. She thanked me for the blog, and for my book, Sooner Than Tomorrow. I want to thank her for reminding me that readers are really out there. I see the analytics for my blog and I know I’m reaching readers all over the world. But, sometimes, it feels a little surreal. Sitting in my den, poking around on my keyboard, it’s difficult to know if I’m reaching anyone. And more importantly, if I’m reaching anyone in a meaningful way. Hearing back from readers plugs me in and gives me energy and the will to continue. Thank you, Jan. Thank you blog followers.
Right now, I’m thinking of Travis in his cell, alone in solitary confinement. I’m thinking of Marcy, the woman looking for a “patio or a porch” to get in out of the winter weather, alone with her dog and her determination. I’m thinking of my friend, Gina Burns, who passed this month after a long battle with multiple serious illnesses. She was a brave and fierce advocate for SMI. I’m thinking of Sherry in Arizona and the long and heroic battle she and her son have waged against an unrelenting foe — schizophrenia. I’m thinking of Scott and Leslie Carpenter and their exhaustive and ongoing efforts to get the SMI message to our 2020 presidential candidates. I’m thinking of Jeanne Allen Gore and her work to form a coalition - The National Shattering Silence Coalition - to create a nationwide voice for people in the front lines against SMI.
I’m thinking of SMI advocates Teresa Pasquini, Kathy Day, Linda Mimms, Deborah Geesling, Linda Rippee, CJ Hanson, Laura Pogliano, Ron Powers, Dj Jaffe, Janet Hays, Martie Bessler, Anne Francisco, Amanda Woodward, Heidi Franke, Marie Abbott, Alison Monroe, Amy Kerr, Alise Bernard, Pamela Armstrong, May Ann Renz, Kathy Baker, Katherine Brooks, Kelli Butler, Mara Briere, Darlene Watkins, Tama Bell, Barb Cobb, Alison Bernard, Ray and Connie Maternick, Cheryl Vitelli, Kimberlee West, Carole McAfee, Christine Herold, Donna Erickson, Tamara Lee, Lori Daubenspeck, Katherine Dering, Eric Diaz, Linda Deslauriers, Rebecca Reinig, Irene Wells, Gail Freedman, Ruth Fisher, Deborah Fabos, Laura Buoni, Allilsa Fernandez, Sheila Ganz, Gloria Hill, Angie Geyser, Staci Hershman, Channin Williams, Iris Cassaloom, Susan Inman, Mary Butler, Ingrid Dempsey, Jane O’Malley, Judy Bracken, Jerri Clark, Stacy Kollias, Amy Kerr, Mary Troy, Mary Sheldon, Sherri McGimsey, Nae Nae, Nancy Moody, Lynn Nanos, Kelli Nidey, Nancy Jones, Nikki Landis, Craig Williams, Christi Ann, Linda Olivia, Paula Quertermous, Penney Jo Dickey, Den Proudley, Ruth Fisher, Walt Stawicki, Sandy Turner, Laurie Turley, Cheri Van Sant, Liza Long, Montana Witsend, Karen Yachts, and so many more I’ve come to know in the last few years through my blog and through Facebook. I’m thankful for each and every one of you. You inspire me and give me courage.
Finally, on the eve of this Thanksgiving 2019, I’m thinking of my family — my beautiful daughters and their husbands and children. I love each of you. And, of course, I’m thinking of my son, Patrick. I’m so thankful I got to be your mom. I’m so thankful the last words we heard each other say were, “I love you, Pat.” And, “I love you, Mom.” You’re the reason I keep fighting for SMI care that is competent, compassionate, and comprehensive. When I get discouraged about how long it’s taking to bring SMI into the national discourse, I remember your favorite phrase. It’s almost like I hear your voice — “Akamai777, Mom.” (Wit, wisdom, and a big hug from the universe.)
With SMI, holidays (and everything else) are never predictable. Today, I hope all of you, and your SMI loved ones, enjoy a day of togetherness and serenity. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Love, Dede