I've always loved writing and I've always wanted to write a memoir about my journey through major depression and bipolar disorder for two very important reasons: (1) When I was first diagnosed, there was precious little to be found anywhere about depressive illness and I felt as if I was an anamoly. I want others to know they aren't alone--that I have survived and believe myself to be a better person for it. My illness has also enabled me to develop a very dry sense of humor; as long as I could laugh, I was not without hope. It's necessary to find humor in the tragic in order to survive. (2) I felt it crucial that those who know little or nothing about depressive illness (particularly those with relatives or friends who might be experiencing depression or bipolar disorder)be educated to some degree as to what the illness is and what it is not by someone who has actually experienced it. It should carry no more stigma than cancer or heart disease. No one chooses it any more than one chooses diabetes. I've been symptom-free for over 6 years and I've finally completed and had published, a book about my experience. It is my hope that "Running Uphill" will be well received and that it will provide a better understanding both for those going through it and those living with those who do.

First-time published author. Speaker's Bureau for NAMI and DBSA. Several articles published on the internet. Invited to be a participant in the 2008 "Much Ado About Books" event and to serve on a discussion panel with a local psychiatrist and psychologist about depressive illness.

Invited to participate in Much Ado About Books, a Jacksonville, FL yearly event in which you must be invited to participate. Also asked to take part in a panel discussion with a psychiatrist and a psychologist to discuss depression and bipolar disorder.

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Promoting outstanding Writers (POW)
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