Answers to the Q's

Q.  Who or what was your biggest source of strength while at "The Peach?"

A.  Hmmm, I have 3.  

1.  JT, I don't have enough words to say about how this man has supported me unconditionally.  He answered the phone morning, noon and night and always had a positive thing to say to me to get me through.  He told me who texted him, took handwritten notes from me to text, read me Bible verses, told me who all loved me and funny kitty stories about Gabby and Pepper (anything to make me smile.)  

2.  My friend, "S" who was in "The Peach" with me.  She was the only person who came from across the room to me as I sat in the vitals chair upon my arrival tired, scared, dirty and sad.  She introduced herself and said, "It's gonna be okay Natalie, I was you yesterday."  That gave me such peace.  She will be a forever friend.  We took a journey together that no one can understand.    

3.  My Prayer Journal my Mother-in-law Lynn brought to me.  When you don't have a clear mind, it is so hard to stay on track with a prayer which in turn creates guilt.  This little special red book afforded me the ability to read small sentences of her notes and Bible verses.  They were amazing!  I read many of them to my roommate at midnight on my last night. 

Q.  Could you have visitors?  

A.  Yes, but only on Sunday from 2-3 PM and Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 PM. JT was so great about organizing the visits.  It was planned out where I saw him first, my parents second, Lynn and Michael next, a couple of friends and then him at the end all within an hour.  On Wednesday, he did the same thing with Mom and Dad and the Bohannons.   

Q.  Was family involved in your treatment?  

A.  Yes, I was assigned a Social Worker who called JT to discuss my case and set up what they call a "Family Session."  The sessions include education about depression, an understanding of what leads to crisis, developing a crisis plan and determining the next steps of the treatment plan.  One word = intense!  

It's late and I have a busy week ahead of work, therapy, support group and homework.  I'll leave you with one of my favorites from the Prayer Journal.  Matthew 6:25