A Companion for the Afflicted: Comprising a Series of Practical Essays on Affliction (1839)

Kelly Bauserman is a remarkable young man who has suffered with schizophrenia for well over a quarter of a century. Here he tells, in his own words, how the affliction first took over his life while he was still a teenager in the United States Navyahow its voices and hallucinations caused him to attempt suicide with a beautifully decorated knife that he had acquired for just that purpose. He discusses openly, frankly and honestly how his condition affected his relationships with other people, his ex-wife and their two sons, his parents and siblings, his close friends and relatives, as well as his associates and supervisors at his jobawhere he was recognized as a conscientious employee for many years. He reveals his appreciation for the many people who have shown concern for himaincluding the personnel at the Veteranas Administration, who have provided help in the way of therapy and medications. And he recognizes and says thanks constantly for the advent of a Higher Power into his life, which gives him the strength to go from day to day. There are lessons to be learned from Kellyas storyafor others with similar conditions, for those who have or might become so afflicted, and for those who care for and about them.