Nancy's world

Nancy Jensen, a mental health survivor for the past 30 years, is a certified peer specialist/trainer, and advocate for those who are being abused, neglected or exploited by mental health providers. In 2006, she received the Voice Award from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services for speaking out about crimes committed against her and others by Arlen and Linda Kaufman while in residential treatment. In addition to being a key witness at their trial in federal court, Nancy successfully lobbied for the establishment of the Kansas Attorney General's Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Unit.

January 31, 2009

My 53 Birthday

wow never thought i would be here at 53 years old. I really did not.

I am so grateful that inspite of my illness I have survived and not just survived but i have also became a better me.

even though the years have been very hard and because of struggling with mental illness I lost a lot of good times, good friendships, good experiences, great jobs, and other things that those who do not struggle with mental illness take for granted. I am glad that I went through all that i did so that I now can say I have overcome a lot.

Even now I still have real bad days and the symtoms of the mental illness can make it seem like i have not survived anything or have overcome anything and yet I become stronger.

I do not know what this year of being 53 will be like , I do know that there are things that i know i can walk through that i did not think i could before. I will now continue to start to have good experience with friends,with work, with good times , I am so grateful for everything i have experience for sure the last three years.

3 years ago • Notes