Our Cause
2. To bring awareness to the general public that these kids are the way they are because of BIOLOGY, not because of abuse, environment, or bad parenting. Every parent we know of a mentally ill or autistic child is deeply committed to their child's welfare.
3. To get the general public to reconsider that when they see a child acting up in public, it may be because of a mental illness and that they should not be so judgmental.
4. To bring awareness to the general public that mental illness can be just as fatal as cancer.
5. To bring awareness to the general public and lawmakers that there is no legal requirement to provide aid to these children, which is the equivalent to diagnosing a child with cancer and then sending him or her home to die.
6. To create a support network of parents of mentally ill and autistic children who can provide respite care and crises aid to each other (because social services won't), divided by geographic region. Our goal is that every parent has someone never more than 30 minutes away who can help.
7. To create a day school for children like Jani, where they can experience success in a non-judgmental environment where their actions caused by their illness is understood. If a child was paralyzed, you wouldn't hold him to the same standard as a child who has full use of limbs, so why do we hold mentally ill children to the same standard as functional kids?
8. To create "The Village," a enclosed community where families can live in individual housing with their severely mentally ill or autistic child(ren) while receiving 24 hour a day 7 day a week support from other families in the same situation, as well as health professionals. This would be a place where children like Jani can live without judgment and fear.
9. To put pressure on elected officials to provide support for points 6-8 above.
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written by Charley, March 31, 2010
Are there any changes in the health care reform that can assist Jani and other children like her in Point 5? I desperately hope so.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment
Best,
Charley
Note from Michael: I'm not sure, Charlie.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment
Best,
Charley
Note from Michael: I'm not sure, Charlie.
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written by Jessica, April 05, 2010
I see myself sometimes when I see Jani. I too had Childhood Schizophrenia (of course not now since I'm older. my diagnosis is now paranoid Schizophrenia) anyways, I hope that Jani knows that she has tons of potential to become whatever her heart desires. We must control this illness, and not let it control us I remember my parents and how hard my diagnosis hit them... It's tough, but as long as we have each other, who can stop us? No one! And may all of those who carry the stigma of mental illness feel comfort.
thanks,
Jess.
Note from Michael: Thank you, Jess. Thank you for giving me hope.
I remember my parents and how hard my diagnosis hit them... It's tough, but as long as we have each other, who can stop us? No one! And may all of those who carry the stigma of mental illness feel comfort. thanks,
Jess.
Note from Michael: Thank you, Jess. Thank you for giving me hope.
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written by Christina, May 04, 2010
Here in NJ there are many schools for special needs children, including those with mental health/illness issues. I don't have as serious issues as Jani, nor was I that young, but know that at least somewhere in the country, people are doing something and helping out. I went to, in my opinion, the GREATEST high school that dealt with teens who had various mental health issues and it was the best experience of my life. Of course, I would have never made it through without my mom being right along side of me and being my advocate. So to both of you, keep fighting...you're doing a great job! Also, on a side note, I'm studying to be a music therapist, has Jani tried that?
Note from Michael: Yes, she has a little bit, in UCLA. She even wrote a song! It is something that we want to be a part of the non-profit we are setting up that will provide various therapies and support to mentally ill children and their families. On my "resources" page there is a link to the Facebook page about it, although it is no longer called The Village Project. We had to change the name for trademark purposes but going there will give you a rough sense of our plans.
Note from Michael: Yes, she has a little bit, in UCLA. She even wrote a song! It is something that we want to be a part of the non-profit we are setting up that will provide various therapies and support to mentally ill children and their families. On my "resources" page there is a link to the Facebook page about it, although it is no longer called The Village Project. We had to change the name for trademark purposes but going there will give you a rough sense of our plans.
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written by Michele Sauers, May 04, 2010
I just saw your special on Discovery Health regarding your daughter Jani.
I'm sure you have heard this before, but I really wanted to email you myself.
I think you both are just amazing!!!!!
You are very lucky to have each other! & Jani is a very lucky little girl to have parents who love her so much! (& a little brother) !
Take Care & God Bless
I'm sure you have heard this before, but I really wanted to email you myself.
I think you both are just amazing!!!!!
You are very lucky to have each other! & Jani is a very lucky little girl to have parents who love her so much! (& a little brother) !
Take Care & God Bless
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written by Bruce and Brenda Williamson, May 04, 2010
As the parents of a 16 year old Schizoprenic child "Roman" we are now in our second high school with the hopes that the new one will do what they say...improve his life at school because of their particular ED (emotionally disturbed) program. Apparently not all schools have it but those that do work. I know that my wife and I are very impressed so far.
Roman has been diagnosed since 14 and is now on his 3rd different medication. We have high hopes in this as he not only suffers from Schizoprenia but Anxiety, Depression, OCD and Dysgraphia. All of this making school very painful for him. Your story on the Discovery Health Channel gave us many emotions and hope.
Thank you,
The Williamson's
Note from Michael: Thank you, Bruce and Brenda. I would welcome you to our private online support group for parents of mentally ill children and adolescents. Here is the link: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...-support/. the group is private and membership is approved only by me. There are MANY other families going through exactly what you and your wife and son are going through right now.
Roman has been diagnosed since 14 and is now on his 3rd different medication. We have high hopes in this as he not only suffers from Schizoprenia but Anxiety, Depression, OCD and Dysgraphia. All of this making school very painful for him. Your story on the Discovery Health Channel gave us many emotions and hope.
Thank you,
The Williamson's
Note from Michael: Thank you, Bruce and Brenda. I would welcome you to our private online support group for parents of mentally ill children and adolescents. Here is the link: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...-support/. the group is private and membership is approved only by me. There are MANY other families going through exactly what you and your wife and son are going through right now.
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written by Janelle, May 05, 2010
Hello -
I just happened to be up late with my insomnia watching TV. I love Discovery Health and decided to watch your story. I am always intrigued by anything to do with Mental illness and how it is so misunderstood and the resources are very few and limited. Living with depression most of my life - you do fee alone in this world.
Jani's story truly struck a cord with me. First off, you and your wife are 2 of the most amazing human beings.
I have 2 healthy teenagers and what i have gone through and am going through is "bliss" compared to what you have endured.
Your patience, love and true tenacity shines through and January and Bohdi are truly blessed to have parents such as yourself.
I also want to thank you for being a voice not only for your daughter, but other people who have suffered or are suffering with Mental Illness.
I truly hope that with this awareness - that there will be a cure someday. More funding and testing needs to be done about mental illness.
I will definetely follow your journey and support you any way I can.
Thank you for sharing. You are AMAZING !!
I just happened to be up late with my insomnia watching TV. I love Discovery Health and decided to watch your story. I am always intrigued by anything to do with Mental illness and how it is so misunderstood and the resources are very few and limited. Living with depression most of my life - you do fee alone in this world.
Jani's story truly struck a cord with me. First off, you and your wife are 2 of the most amazing human beings.
I have 2 healthy teenagers and what i have gone through and am going through is "bliss" compared to what you have endured.
Your patience, love and true tenacity shines through and January and Bohdi are truly blessed to have parents such as yourself.
I also want to thank you for being a voice not only for your daughter, but other people who have suffered or are suffering with Mental Illness.
I truly hope that with this awareness - that there will be a cure someday. More funding and testing needs to be done about mental illness.
I will definetely follow your journey and support you any way I can.
Thank you for sharing. You are AMAZING !!
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written by Melissa, May 05, 2010
I saw your special on the Discovery Health Channel and I wanted to let you know how very much I admire what you are doing as parents. I can't even begin to understand what it feels like in your shoes, and I won't pretend that I do. As a parent though, I do understand the need to give everything within yourself to provide for the needs of your children. I wish I had insighful advice or financial means to offer you some assistance, but unfortunately I do not. I do however offer you the unwavering support of a complete stranger who greatly admires your family. Peace, love, and happiness from my family to yours!
Melissa (Augusta, GA)
Melissa (Augusta, GA)
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written by chris and art montoya Fort worth Texas, May 05, 2010
I have seen Jani on a few shows now and I just watch them Jani
has such a sweet face and is just so blessed to have such wonderful
parents like you to take her through life .I am amazed at your family
and how you just wake up everyday and make it work for jani and your
family .as I write this I want you to know you are in my thought's and
prayer's
God Bless you
has such a sweet face and is just so blessed to have such wonderful
parents like you to take her through life .I am amazed at your family
and how you just wake up everyday and make it work for jani and your
family .as I write this I want you to know you are in my thought's and
prayer's
God Bless you
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written by chris and art montoya Fort worth Texas, May 05, 2010
Just a note to say I see Jani on shows and I am just amazed what a wonderful girl she is such a sweet face you are such amazing parents
I always have you in my thoughts and prayers god bless you
I always have you in my thoughts and prayers god bless you
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written by B &L Zoellick, May 05, 2010
It touched our hearts and reminded me of our second oldest daughter, Katie. We always knew something was wrong. Her biological father had bipolar and so do I. I never expected it to manifest itself in her so young and so differently from our own mental illness. She used to throw tantrums and fling herself head first into the bricks of our fireplace. She would smack herself in the head or bang her head into the wall. It was so frightening. It wasn't until she was much older that she began to threaten hurting herself. She also has tried hurting me and her younger sisters. She is on medications now, she is 13 and seems to be doing alright, but it's usually the small things that set her off. I suppose my biggest fear is how to help her and keep her safe when the time comes that she feels she can take care of herself or wants to get off her meds and I can't do anything about it except tell her it wouldn't be such a good idea. I think the both of you are incedible parents! And you inspired me.
Note from Michael: Thank you, and please consider joining our private online support group for parents of mentally ill children. Many of them share your exact same fear. What happens when you have no legal control over your child anymore? http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
Note from Michael: Thank you, and please consider joining our private online support group for parents of mentally ill children. Many of them share your exact same fear. What happens when you have no legal control over your child anymore? http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
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written by Jammie, May 06, 2010
I watched the special on Jani last night and I was touched by your family. I went through some similar things with my little girl. She too has a high IQ and after many diagnnoses ranging from ODD, Bipolar NOS and ADHD now is diagnosed with Asperger's. I also have a sister who was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia at 16. She is now 30. You both are very supportive and patient with your daughter. Thank you for sharing your story.
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written by tina, May 06, 2010
I too have a child who suffers from mental illness. My husband and I have only recently heard of your story when it aired on 20/20 and again on discovery health.
We have chosen to place our son in residential care, when the safety of our other two children became too big a burden. It ultimately became a choice that the Child protective services forced us to make. Keeping our son Matthew at home vs the safety of the other two children. We discussed splitting up our home the way you have, at the time it did not seem plausible, I wish I had seen your story a year or two before we placed him in residential care. We are impressed with your ability to keep Jani home.
Do you still have a website for parents of children with mental health issues? I would love to become a member.
Note from Michael: Yes, it still exists. It is a private online support group, not a website, to protect the information of its members. Here is the link to join: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
And please don't feel bad about putting your son in residential. Currently, Susan and I are creating the Jani Foundation to provide in home services so that families with mentally ill children can stay together.
We have chosen to place our son in residential care, when the safety of our other two children became too big a burden. It ultimately became a choice that the Child protective services forced us to make. Keeping our son Matthew at home vs the safety of the other two children. We discussed splitting up our home the way you have, at the time it did not seem plausible, I wish I had seen your story a year or two before we placed him in residential care. We are impressed with your ability to keep Jani home.
Do you still have a website for parents of children with mental health issues? I would love to become a member.
Note from Michael: Yes, it still exists. It is a private online support group, not a website, to protect the information of its members. Here is the link to join: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
And please don't feel bad about putting your son in residential. Currently, Susan and I are creating the Jani Foundation to provide in home services so that families with mentally ill children can stay together.
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written by Rachel, May 08, 2010
I saw your story on the Discovery Health channel, and I understand so much what it must be like not only for you, but for Jani. I have severe bipolar disorder that started mainly when I was 6 years old. Beforehand, my family thought I was very intelligent and I knew how to read, but once my symptoms started, it seemed like nothing worked. Before I got on the right medications, I would hallucinate, try to kill myself, try to kill other people, run from where I should be at random times. When I was watching, I felt like I was looking back in time. I used to see bunnies, people, giant teddy bears, and cartoon characters that weren't there, and I'd talk to them in school or try to hurt them, but really I was hurting people near me.
I really hope you guys get her medicine where it should be. It's never easy for anyone, but once she's stable, everything will be worth it. Good luck, Jani
Note from Michael: Thank you, Rachel. Your story, which does indeed sound a lot like Jani's, gives me a lot of hope.
I really hope you guys get her medicine where it should be. It's never easy for anyone, but once she's stable, everything will be worth it. Good luck, Jani
Note from Michael: Thank you, Rachel. Your story, which does indeed sound a lot like Jani's, gives me a lot of hope.
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written by Kristy, May 09, 2010
Saw your show on Disc Health. Thank you for getting the word out on mental illness in children.
I saw many similarities in Jani to my own son. He is 5 and has severe autism. He is nonverbal but has above average intelligence. He also does not sleep and can never be left alone, not for one second. He loves heights and water- he is almost magnetically attracted to them. Also he is a "runner" and an escape artist. Our other children are older but I can appreciate your concern for the safety of your younger son. My guy also has self-injurious and aggressive behaviors, especially when his routines are interrupted (his mind is ruled by OCD). Once he needed to go inpatient but there is not inpatient for children who cannot speak, are not potty-trained, etc.
Note from Michael: You are absolutely right, Kristy. Thank you for reminding me of this key need! The Jani Foundation must also be prepared to provide services to non-verbal, non-potty trained children. It angers me that you can't even get your son inpatient! Thank you for sharing your story and I hope you join our parental support group: it is for both mental illness AND autism. Susan and I have always felt that parents of mentally ill kids and parents of autistic kids share many of the same issues. The group is called "Parental Support" for a reason: It doesn't matter what the diagnosis is. We all need help and our children need a life of happiness.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/parental-support/
I saw many similarities in Jani to my own son. He is 5 and has severe autism. He is nonverbal but has above average intelligence. He also does not sleep and can never be left alone, not for one second. He loves heights and water- he is almost magnetically attracted to them. Also he is a "runner" and an escape artist. Our other children are older but I can appreciate your concern for the safety of your younger son. My guy also has self-injurious and aggressive behaviors, especially when his routines are interrupted (his mind is ruled by OCD). Once he needed to go inpatient but there is not inpatient for children who cannot speak, are not potty-trained, etc.
Note from Michael: You are absolutely right, Kristy. Thank you for reminding me of this key need! The Jani Foundation must also be prepared to provide services to non-verbal, non-potty trained children. It angers me that you can't even get your son inpatient! Thank you for sharing your story and I hope you join our parental support group: it is for both mental illness AND autism. Susan and I have always felt that parents of mentally ill kids and parents of autistic kids share many of the same issues. The group is called "Parental Support" for a reason: It doesn't matter what the diagnosis is. We all need help and our children need a life of happiness.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/parental-support/
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written by concerned, May 11, 2010
My heart goes out to you. Jani is a beautiful girl who was created for a purpose bigger than you can imagine. Jani can be healed! Please look in the bible and there will be an answer for you. No medication, or therapy, or medium can help. Only God can completely cure her. God bless you. You are in my prayers
Note from Michael: I agree, Concerned, but I believe God works through people. It is our job to carry out God's work. When you pray, God sends people to help.
Note from Michael: I agree, Concerned, but I believe God works through people. It is our job to carry out God's work. When you pray, God sends people to help.
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written by hollaeushka, May 20, 2010
I don't have Schizophrenia, I have Dissociative Identity Disorder which is commonly confused with Schiz. I have had D.I.D since I was nine, and it has been a living hell but with family, therapy and a little injection of friendship... things have settled down. life is still hard, and i'm working on a book describing my journey, in the hope of helping other people to see the light.
But anyway, I have three best friends with the disorder, and although times can be rough, I've never seen such determined people. As Susanna Kaysen, writer of 'Girl, Interrupted' once said, 'being crazy isn't about harbouring a dark secret... it's you or me, amplified'.
i feel for your little girl, and hope that you all get the support that you need. i know from personal experience that mental illness is hard but family and support, of which she seems to have a lot are the best remedies. Jani is so beautiful and bright she will be very successful in life, and I really hope that things get better in the long run for you all.
Note from Michael: Thank you and my hat is off to you. Your story inspires me and gives me hope.
But anyway, I have three best friends with the disorder, and although times can be rough, I've never seen such determined people. As Susanna Kaysen, writer of 'Girl, Interrupted' once said, 'being crazy isn't about harbouring a dark secret... it's you or me, amplified'.
i feel for your little girl, and hope that you all get the support that you need. i know from personal experience that mental illness is hard but family and support, of which she seems to have a lot are the best remedies. Jani is so beautiful and bright she will be very successful in life, and I really hope that things get better in the long run for you all.
Note from Michael: Thank you and my hat is off to you. Your story inspires me and gives me hope.
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written by Pyp, June 04, 2010
I started seeing "things" at the age of 16/17 (Now 22) and it took me a while to get used to them, then the voices came and currently I hear ten. I also see things and feel things, but I am not a diagnosed schizophrenic, but I have a list of other things I am diagnosed with.
Yes it is hard to deal with the demands that these "things" put onto you, but with time comes coping techniques.
Here in the UK I am now starting to campaign to provide people who hear voices or see things a safe place to talk in the shape of my forum, but this is also for carers, family and friends.
I am trying my hardest to keep the NHS funding going here in my area for the help I need and others in a similar situation need.
I am in the adult service and I know how hard it has been on me, so I can only imagine how hard it is for you.
Just keep going, and like others have said just because you have this label (schizophrenia) does not mean life stops.
Yes it is hard to deal with the demands that these "things" put onto you, but with time comes coping techniques.
Here in the UK I am now starting to campaign to provide people who hear voices or see things a safe place to talk in the shape of my forum, but this is also for carers, family and friends.
I am trying my hardest to keep the NHS funding going here in my area for the help I need and others in a similar situation need.
I am in the adult service and I know how hard it has been on me, so I can only imagine how hard it is for you.
Just keep going, and like others have said just because you have this label (schizophrenia) does not mean life stops.
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written by Michelle Durham, June 20, 2010
Dear Schofield Family,
I just saw you on Discovery Health, thank you so much for sharing your story. My beautiful 9 year old daughter was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome when she was 5. It has been very mild although she has suffered from OCD, anxiety and ADHD and it was a constant struggle that many times I did not understand. That was until she got a Streph infection a few months ago and it developed into Pandas Syndrome. Our daughter turned into a nervous, psychotic child who has verbal tics everyday for hours. It is getting slowly better but it's always there. It could take months for her to fully recover. The world of mild tourette's we knew is gone and now we welcome a new uncertain world
My husband and I currently live in Connecticut but the cold weather really makes the winter work so we are working on moving to Southern California or Arizona so we can spend more time outside all year long because that seems to offer a better treatment.
Thank you so much for sharing your story, it brought tears to my eyes and was what I needed to see.
Thanks,
Michelle Durham
Note from Michael: Michelle, we have a private online support group for parents with mentally ill children. You are more than welcome to join. Here is the link: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
I just saw you on Discovery Health, thank you so much for sharing your story. My beautiful 9 year old daughter was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome when she was 5. It has been very mild although she has suffered from OCD, anxiety and ADHD and it was a constant struggle that many times I did not understand. That was until she got a Streph infection a few months ago and it developed into Pandas Syndrome. Our daughter turned into a nervous, psychotic child who has verbal tics everyday for hours. It is getting slowly better but it's always there. It could take months for her to fully recover. The world of mild tourette's we knew is gone and now we welcome a new uncertain world
My husband and I currently live in Connecticut but the cold weather really makes the winter work so we are working on moving to Southern California or Arizona so we can spend more time outside all year long because that seems to offer a better treatment.
Thank you so much for sharing your story, it brought tears to my eyes and was what I needed to see.
Thanks,
Michelle Durham
Note from Michael: Michelle, we have a private online support group for parents with mentally ill children. You are more than welcome to join. Here is the link: http://health.groups.yahoo.com...l-support/
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written by Eileen, June 21, 2010
Hello Jani's parents! My name is Eileen, and i happend to stumble upon your story last night on discovery health. I was completely moved, touched, and inspired by your daughter and your story. Although I do not have any diagnosed mental illness, I was in and out of psycologists offices and spent a little time in a stress center when I was a teenager. To this date I still suffer from ups and downs, but I've learned to deal with them in my own way. The reason why i am writing you is because I am currently in nursing school, my whole life I wanted to help children/adolesants who have mental problems, and for me nursing was the way to go. For a while I had stopped wanting to become a Psyc nurse due to the things that other nurses have said about the specialty. Last night your daughter reinspired me to take up my passion for wanting to help those who greatly need it. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story with the world, and please thank you daughter for being such a brave little girl. I hope she knows how many people she has inspired because of her couragous story.
Thank you Jani
Eileen
Note from Michael: Thank you, Eileen, and keep going! Jani's nurses at UCLA are her second family. It is tough specialty but very rewarding.
Thank you Jani
Eileen
Note from Michael: Thank you, Eileen, and keep going! Jani's nurses at UCLA are her second family. It is tough specialty but very rewarding.
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written by Nora , June 28, 2010
Wow! I've just finished several hours of reading your blog, viewing various video and reading articles about your family's arduous journey. It is clearly impossible to come away from your ongoing story without marvelling at the degree dedication, commitment and sacrifice you and Susan have for your children. That you publically share it with the rest of the world is so very much appreciated, and it is obvious that your message has touched the lives of thousands of people, including those very families who share similar struggles with mental illness.
Although all your time is consumed with raising Bodhi and Jani, do you think you will ever write a book about your experiences? You are such a gifted and eloquent writer, and certainly it would seem that you could benefit financially from the sales of a book, towards your bills or your future foundation work. I know I would buy a copy the first time it went into print.
Thank you for allowing me a glimpse of your world. As the mother of a 3 year old daughter, I will forever be looking at my relationship with her a bit differently now. You and Susan make me want to be a better parent, and for that, I am so grateful. I hope today is a GOOD day for each of you.
In serenity,
Nora
Santa Cruz, CA
Although all your time is consumed with raising Bodhi and Jani, do you think you will ever write a book about your experiences? You are such a gifted and eloquent writer, and certainly it would seem that you could benefit financially from the sales of a book, towards your bills or your future foundation work. I know I would buy a copy the first time it went into print.
Thank you for allowing me a glimpse of your world. As the mother of a 3 year old daughter, I will forever be looking at my relationship with her a bit differently now. You and Susan make me want to be a better parent, and for that, I am so grateful. I hope today is a GOOD day for each of you.
In serenity,
Nora
Santa Cruz, CA
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written by Berni, June 30, 2010
Dear Michael & Susan: I have been searching every day to try and find how I can watch your show, which I believe is called 'Born Schizophrenic, The Jani Schofield Story' of something like that. Is there anywhere online or on Demand TV or can I order a copy of your show somehow? I missed it on the last night it aired as I couldn't find Discovery Health channel in my area until the LAST 5 minutes of the show and also I didn't realize it was aired in Eastern Time and I am Pacific Time - 3 hours difference! :-(
Thanks for any help on this matter that you can give me.
Berni
Seattle, WA
Note from Michael: Currently, DHC has no plans to release a DVD version and the full version is not available online. However, I did a search and found this link which lists upcoming airdates: http://tvlistings.zap2it.com/t...EP01253579
Thanks for any help on this matter that you can give me.
Berni
Seattle, WA
Note from Michael: Currently, DHC has no plans to release a DVD version and the full version is not available online. However, I did a search and found this link which lists upcoming airdates: http://tvlistings.zap2it.com/t...EP01253579
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written by Anonymous, July 12, 2010
i just wanted to say thank you for making the video about childhood onset schizophrenia. Also, i wanted to thank you for opening my eyes a little about mental illnesses. The video on discovery health channel and reading your story on this website has taught me that if i see someone acting seemingly outrageous to me, they may just have a mental illness like Janni and to except that,and not stare. Also, i wanted to ask Mr.Schofield how often he updates the blogs because i want to know how janni is doing. Anyway, i just wanted to say thank you.
Note from Michael: When I write a new blog depends on whether I have something to say. At present (July 12th, 2010) Jani is out of the hospital, back home, and doing reasonably well except for some occasional breakthrough psychosis.
Note from Michael: When I write a new blog depends on whether I have something to say. At present (July 12th, 2010) Jani is out of the hospital, back home, and doing reasonably well except for some occasional breakthrough psychosis.
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written by Beth Arntz, July 20, 2010
Thanks for sharing Jani's and your story with us. She's a beautiful child (in many ways), and I believe that there is a reason for her to be here. I'm keeping you all in my thoughts.
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written by Marta, July 22, 2010
My intention is to help you find another option of treatment for your daughter's problem. I don't know your faith and I am not trying to convert you to any religion. Please, don't get me wrong. But I think you could have a better and happier life understanding everything from another point of view. There are many studies about mental disorders in spiritism including schizophrenia and maybe you can find in your country a place to help her. One advantage in trying other treatment is to reduce medicine that can damage your daughter's health if she needs to take it for the rest of her life to control her behaviour.
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written by Kayla, July 23, 2010
I was touched when I saw your family on Oprah and on Discovery Health. Jani is a beautiful and intelligent child. God has put her hear for a reason. My hope and prayer for her is that she is able to be a successful adult and help others with this disease stay strong. I also know her story will help others and maybe help spark doctors to find a better treatment for childhood schizophrenia. I hope at least some of your ideas above, especially the one about a school for kids like Jani. As a future teacher, I feel education is important for kids and helps them learn about their world and it's history. Good luck and never lose hope!
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written by Marsya, July 24, 2010
I agree with the idea of science being a major factor in mental illness. We just lost our 5 month old niece to heart failure from a chromosomal defect named Trisomy 18. Her heart defect could have been surgically fixed, however the odds of her mental defect being severe, no doctor would perform the surgery (insurance issue too I'm sure). I am currently still in college and I am unsure about what I want to do, however chemical and biological research on the brain has been something I have great interest in. I hope one day that not only will there be better facilities to assist mentally ill individuals, but also that there will be a chemical or prosthetic help to "heal" such mental illnesses. Crazy I know, but if we never ask questions and push pass the ceiling, then we may never know our potential. Good luck to you and your wonderful family,
The Almeidas
Note from Michael: I am very sorry for the loss of your niece. It angers me that no doctor would perform life saving surgery simply because of a high risk of mental retardation. I believe everybody deserves to a change at happiness, regardless of what challenges they face.
The Almeidas
Note from Michael: I am very sorry for the loss of your niece. It angers me that no doctor would perform life saving surgery simply because of a high risk of mental retardation. I believe everybody deserves to a change at happiness, regardless of what challenges they face.
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written by anonymous, August 09, 2010
dear Jani,
HAPPY BIRTDAY!!!!!!!!!! its fun to be eight!!!!!!!!! Another grade , another year, and a fresh start. I'm Soooooooooooooooooooo sorry this is late but we had to to a bunch of stuff yesterday for MY birthday!!!!! yep, we were born on the same day. :-) ... but i'm almost twice your age of 8!!!
- question for Michael:
What did you guys do for Jani's B-day?...
Note from Michael: We had a pool party with a Spongebob theme. It was nice. Becca came. Not as big a party as last year but it was nice.
HAPPY BIRTDAY!!!!!!!!!! its fun to be eight!!!!!!!!! Another grade , another year, and a fresh start. I'm Soooooooooooooooooooo sorry this is late but we had to to a bunch of stuff yesterday for MY birthday!!!!! yep, we were born on the same day. :-) ... but i'm almost twice your age of 8!!!
- question for Michael:
What did you guys do for Jani's B-day?...
Note from Michael: We had a pool party with a Spongebob theme. It was nice. Becca came. Not as big a party as last year but it was nice.
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written by K. McCarthy, August 16, 2010
What a beautiful girl Jani is.
Thank you for sharing this journey with us all.
Jani is blessed to have been born to the two of you. You are taking very good care of her.
Thank you for sharing this journey with us all.
Jani is blessed to have been born to the two of you. You are taking very good care of her.
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written by P.J, August 16, 2010
hello, i have a question. If this makes u angry or something u don't have to answer. You don't even have to put this comment up ok?... I'm just trying to understand some things... Why does Jani rub her hands together like that?.... Is it just a "Jani" thing or.....
Note from Michael: Why would it make me angry? It's a valid question. Nobody really knows the answer. It could be a release of nervous energy (which is what I think). She only does it when she is happy.
Note from Michael: Why would it make me angry? It's a valid question. Nobody really knows the answer. It could be a release of nervous energy (which is what I think). She only does it when she is happy.
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written by Damiso, August 26, 2010
I surely hope no one finds this offensive but am I the only who thinks Jani and her friend Becca are demon oppressed or possessed? I'm not implying that every schizophrenic has a spiritual origin but in the case of Jani and Becca it is as clear as day.
Michael, if you reading this please take her to a church and have a pastor pray over in the name of Jesus Christ. It seems you have exhausted every option, what do you have to lose by going to God?
If you want to go the spiritual route Michael, contact me. I too live in L.A. county. I have friends who are strong Christians who will help. Again, you have nothing to lose.
Note from Michael: Thank you, but no. I am not sure why demonic possession seems so much more plausible to you than schizophrenia.
Michael, if you reading this please take her to a church and have a pastor pray over in the name of Jesus Christ. It seems you have exhausted every option, what do you have to lose by going to God?
If you want to go the spiritual route Michael, contact me. I too live in L.A. county. I have friends who are strong Christians who will help. Again, you have nothing to lose.
Note from Michael: Thank you, but no. I am not sure why demonic possession seems so much more plausible to you than schizophrenia.
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written by Lynn, August 27, 2010
I saw the DHC special, and I just wanted to say that seeing Jani gave me inspiration for my future. Just to see that she was still alive and to see what you were dealing with...it was amazing.
I'm 17 and have had paranoid schizophrenia since age 11, so it's nice to see that there is still hope in the world. I think you guys are doing a wonderful job caring for your daughter.
P.S. Tell Jani I said hi!
Note from Michael: I will and congratulations to you! Just living with schizophrenia is a huge accomplishment and one you should be very proud of.
I'm 17 and have had paranoid schizophrenia since age 11, so it's nice to see that there is still hope in the world. I think you guys are doing a wonderful job caring for your daughter.
P.S. Tell Jani I said hi!
Note from Michael: I will and congratulations to you! Just living with schizophrenia is a huge accomplishment and one you should be very proud of.
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written by Nichole, August 30, 2010
I just wanted to leave you a message in your email. I sent it a few minut.es ago. It's kind of long so you might want to print it. It's up to you.
Mr and Schofiel, you two are just so amazing to me in regards to how you help Jani and Bodh. I can imagine how tough it can be on the relationship with each other. But like with your children, you make it all work. I wish there was an award for parents of the year. I'd nominate you. You two deserve it.
Keep smiling. And don't forget to be there for each other.
Mr and Schofiel, you two are just so amazing to me in regards to how you help Jani and Bodh. I can imagine how tough it can be on the relationship with each other. But like with your children, you make it all work. I wish there was an award for parents of the year. I'd nominate you. You two deserve it.
Keep smiling. And don't forget to be there for each other.
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