Kim
My Precious Jewel

Five years ago, my husband left me for my best friend.  I thought I could never suffer anything more painful then that.  Then, out of the blue, my seven year old daughter started having horrible temper tantrums.  She was extremely defiant and at times very violent.  My immediate thought was that she wasn't handling the divorce well.  So I sought therapy for her.  Within the first two sessions, the therapist informed me that she thought there was more to my daughter’s behavior then the divorce.  Eventually, my daughter was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Since then, the ride has been more than a little bumpy.  Her mood swings are violent and hateful.  She spits, hits, bites, swears and then cries and cries.  I have had to physically restrain her all the while trying not to get hurt in the struggle.  It has been isolating at times but I have a few really great friends who love us and support us no matter what.  My faith gets me through but I tell you, there are days I want to run away.  I have dealt with this for five years on my own and it has been draining.  I have read everything I can find and I am always looking for more information.  My sweet, highly intelligent baby becomes a nightmare sometimes.  We battle lying, stealing, impulsivity, anger, depression, and much more.  I deal with my daughter with toughness and love, but I feel like I am always the bad guy.  I can't let up for a minute and it is hard.  But, I love her and what else can I do?  If I don’t help her who will?  I know that one day, my two daughters and I will be able to help other families dealing with bipolar disorder.  Our fight now WILL benefit others.  I have faith that our struggles will not be in vain.  In the meantime, I will keep fighting the fight.