My first major bout of depression came when I was about eight years old when my mother was in the hospital and I was left alone with my alcoholic father. I couldn’t eat and was loosing my hair, but no one noticed. My instincts led me to become an obsessive overachiever. Every minute I could I was either escaping in a book or studying. Maybe someone would notice now, but they never did.

 I went to college, graduated, and realized my dream of becoming a teacher. All through college and early career depression reoccurred. In 1990 it was discovered that I had a brain tumor. I had surgery and contracted Meningitis and Hydrophytes resulting in frontal lobe brain damage. With my physical health at an all time low, depression overtook my body and I lost three months of memory, developed panic attacks, and had severe anxiety. I completely isolated myself and didn’t leave my apartment. My life became hopeless.

 She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Kentucky Self-Advocates for Freedom, and active in her local KYSAFF chapter. District 3 you can contact  her at E mail. click here