VOICES OF OUR REGION
Grace Anderson
Transcript
Thank you, everybody for your love and support. My name is Grace Anderson, but everybody calls me Gracey. My story began 30 years ago when I was hospitalized in the state of California. My hospitalization was a result of extreme paranoia of being alone, feeling as if people were out to get me. Since then, I have been in and out of hospitals since 1969. For the past seven years I have been very active in my recovery. I used respite which was part of my recovery and support. I am out of respite and have been living in a personal care home for six years. My support system began with going to FSWP, Family Service of Western Pennsylvania, Mental Health Groups. I have built new friendships and have learned to get my self-esteem back. I learned to become more independent by being more assertive, being more comfortable. I was able to regain my sense of humor again. Today what gives me the greatest joy is volunteering at the Hope Center for three or four years. The reason I love my volunteering is because I can give back what I learned. I also began volunteering at the Salvation Army five years ago. The most perfect gift at this time is the relationship I have with my son, Georgie who is 26 years old. I also have support from my two brothers and who have been there for me most of my life. And also the support of several friends and family.
Interviewers: Very nice. Very nice. Yeah. Very nice. See I think that…that you’re an inspiration.
Gracey: Thank you.
Interviewers: I really do.
Gracey: Thank you.
Interviewers: And I appreciate the good work you’re doing.
Gracey: Thank you.