Leslie Laughs and Cries

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at almost 30 years old.  I am 35 now and think back on my life and wish I could have known all along that I had bipolar disorder so it could have been treated for all those years.  But then again, I thank God that it happened this way as I have so many blessings.  I honestly don't think I would have wanted children after finding out that I had bipolar disorder.  I feel I need to share my story with many people.  Read this blog if you have a mental illness and want some support.  You will be surprised and maybe even relate to the struggles as well as the blessings regarding our illnesses.  Read on if you know and love someone with bipolar disorder or a mental illness.  This is a good way to support them, as you explore one person's story.  I know there are so many of you who don't really know how mental illness affects the person suffering.  It truly gets in the way of their life and believe it or not but  their loved ones suffer a great deal as well.  I want to share my story because I want to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and help fight stigmas associated with mental illness.  I would like to share parts of my life with you that don't have to do with bipolar disorder but believe me; it will all make sense once you get to know me.  Bipolar disorder does not define who I am as a person and it never did.   I want you to learn more about me as it may help you learn about others with the same condition.  I invite you to read my story as I have laughed alone in my severe manias and cried alone in my terrible depressions.   Many of the street names, towns, hospitals, and people's names are changed to protect identities.