The series may not be continuing, but the fact that everyone has a story does not change. Here is Cindy’s story!
My father was diagnosed with schizophrenia when I was about 5 years old. My father’s brother also received the same diagnosis. They were both in their early 20’s. We did not have support groups to teach us how to cope. Often families were left to figure things out on their own and we were just confused children thinking they had somehow gone insane. I decide to go back to school because I wanted to learn all I could about my father’s illness. Going to school to learn about mental health gave me the understanding that I was really lacking. As my knowledge grew instead of being bitter toward my dad I found compassion for him. A lot of the anger I was harboring I was able to release. I personally tend to portray a person that has it all together. As the oldest child I have always had to be the one that has to be strong and keep it together for my siblings. However, I have also had my own secret struggles with addiction, personality disorder and anorexia/bulimia (which is a physical issue with a huge mental aspect). As I have fought my way through these things I still have days of struggle and know many other people do too. That is why my goal is to help raise awareness and support for those with an invisible illness, not only for those that have an illness but also for their families. Families face many sacrifices when a loved one is diagnosed with an invisible illness. They need to know that there will be many emotional highs and lows but they are not alone. They have a voice and deserve to be heard.
Be on the lookout, because later this month we will hear more from Cindy!
I am a mom to four boys and I am married to an amazing man that has always supported my passion to share my heart. I currently stay home with my boys and work from home for a call center. My favorite thing is to travel and see new places. I love to be crafty but don’t find much time for it… instead I scroll through Pinterest day dreaming. I have my Bachelor’s in psychology but my goal is to go back to school and finish my Master’s in Behavioral Science so that I can actually work in the field of behavioral health.
Defying Shadows 