My name is Bill Armstrong, and I am 33 years old. I write fiction and poetry as a hobby. I have no direct experience with DID, but research I was doing for a short story led me to Emily's site, and her gracious help enabled me to write 'Ryan and Jaybird', a short story posted on this site. I am struck by both the courage and hope shown by DID sufferers, and the differences between the reality and the Hollywood portrayals of DID. I have come to find out that there are few "outsiders" willing to learn from and understand people with DID, and I feel privileged to have been able to obtain what knowledge I have gained. Keep hoping, and keep fighting. God bless.
"I have gone through the healing process over the last 12 years (finally diagnosed as dissociative about 7 years ago) and blended (integrated) last year. It's been a difficult, frustrating, scary, exciting, awesome experience. I am glad to share what has helped me along the way in case it will help anyone else." ~ J.B.
My name is Jenn, and I am a 37 year old mother of 5, who was diagnosed with DID 7 years ago. I was able to integrate fully last year with the help of a good therapist, and a great support group! Some stress caused a re-split of 7 parts, but that doesn't distress me now! I have learned how to cope with life split, or together, and know that we can function better as a whole.
I guess I just want to
tell anyone who wonders what life is like whole, that it is worth the journey!!
Even when it all falls apart, I can still remember the peace of wholeness...I
would like to help others to reach this peace. My friend Emily has given my this
awesome opportunity with her beautiful website....I hope you find it as
inspirational as I have.
Jenn
I'm Sheila Ashlin from Florida, but my pen name is Restin Wells. I seemed to have a normal life until age 29, when I had a sudden breakdown and began to have sustained, disabling anxiety over something unknown. That was the beginning of many hospital stays, many therapists, and meds, and misdiagnosis. Ten years later, a hospital doctor helped me find my two "other selves" that were causing the fear and sickness. I began negotiations to stop the fear. There was much judgment, hate, and terror between my adult self and my infant self. In about a year, we reconciled our differences and I was able to return to normal life and have a full time job. I handle all my business and daily affairs, and feel well too. Now I want to help others who are struggling, or feeling despair with anxiety and depression. My two alters are Nomark (about 1 or 2) and Taver ( a middle). I'm also planning to write and illustrate a "comic book" which depicts the search and reunion of two alters looking for their host, the warrior-princess, Tirza Magnacore. It is well along in the development of their adventures.
How I came up with this Idea....
Restin Wells writes: "I think it would be a great idea to post a question for a place to begin discussion. It breaks the ice, when some of people's experience with DID is a bit delicate to speak up about. I'll look forward to it, and respond in turn."
Thank you Restin, this is a great idea. I love to write. I belong to an email support group, but I find that unless I can directly relate to the subject I can't find the words to express my thoughts. I too need a topic to write to, or a question that causes me to ponder the various answers. Emily