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In Memory of Mary Pence

Mom's Illness and the Need to Raise Mental Illness Awareness

When I was five years old my mother was diagnosed with mental illness. More specifically, she was diagnosed with schizophrenia. My mother was the kindest, most loving woman I have ever met. Yet, she suffered a great deal. Her illness led her to do and say many things that caused a great deal of stress and pain in our household. From the time I was a child, until her death my mother was often hospitalized for her condition. Her illness ultimately led her to a tragic death. It is important to me that her memory is not forgotten. I hope that sharing my family's struggle with mental illness can help the millions of other families that deal with loved ones who suffer from an often taboo and misunderstood disease. I have met countless families whose loved ones suffer from depression, schizophrenia, paranoia or other forms of mental illness but who rarely seek help or support from others. It is time people break the silence on this important issue. Many families need help not just for those who suffer from mental illness, but for the family members who deal with the pain and stress mental illness brings. For people who want to learn more about schizophrenia and the pain and suffering it brings families, as well as support and help in dealing with this illness, a good website devoted to this issue is openthedoors.com I love and miss you Mom--and your memory will never be forgotten!!

If someone in your family suffers from mental illness, or if you would like to learn more about this important issue, please check out the following sites:

Pictures of Mary Pence

Cain, Mom & Mike - 1983
   Cain, Mom & Mike - 1993