Thank you for bringing awareness to a subject that has very little fanfare (“
The most recent article about the frustrations the Middleton family experiences is one of hundreds in this nation. This article reached many, and, for me it has provided me with a level of comfort and confirmation that compassion still exists in our society, most important, people care.
My sister, Maria, was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder in 2002 and was involuntarily committed. I was her court appointed guardian, but I was more than that, I was her lifeline.
Since our horrific childhood in foster care, I made the decision to excel, work hard and take care of Maria, and for 35 years I did just that. I live in Boston; my salary provided for her in every way her entire life. In 2018, she was released. She became homeless, was arrested 10 times, assaulted, abused, and was sleeping on sidewalks. Maria was unrecognizable. The trauma killed her memory. My point is to share a story that sheds light on similar circumstances.
My story details the severe problems with states that fund their own mental health services. It’s all about the dollars and the flawed HIPAA law that destroyed Maria, and me in the process.
Maria and I were making progress; since her commitment, she’s changed dramatically and I’m afraid she’ll die. But I’m determined. Our story is about pain, tears and a sister’s love.
Victoria Trinchitella
East Boston , Massachusetts
