A new anthology called “Voices of Bipolar Disorder: The Healing Companion,” features Cottonwood writer Jamie Weil and her daughter, Amanda, who share their story of discovering Amanda’s early onset bipolar condition at the age of 12.
With a foreword by the creators and cast of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Next to Normal,” a play that explores the challenges faced by those with the disorder, this anthology openly shares the experiences of some of the 1 percent to 2 percent of the people in the United States who suffer with bipolar disorder.
“Amanda and I feel the best way to bust the stigma related to mental illness is to share our story,” Weil says. “Bipolar disorder is a brain disease, not a character flaw, and early intervention is crucial.”
The eighth in a series of books that brings to light the real-life accounts of those living with chronic illnesses, “Voices of Bipolar Disorder” is intended to provide support and comfort to those living with the disease and those who care for them.
The anthology includes more than 34 stories of parents, spouses, children and loved ones who have felt the impact of the disease. Their tales of courage, strength and compassion offer insight into the challenges and isolation experienced by its victims, and most importantly, the writers’ hopes for the future and the strength of the human spirit.
The “Voices” series was created by Debra LaChance who, when diagnosed with breast cancer, sought out the personal stories of those who had been through what she was experiencing and from which she could take comfort and strength. The series has tackled autism, breast cancer, lung cancer, alcoholism, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
“Voices” books are available at bookstores and online at LaChance Publishing.
