“I am in awe of this book. As someone who loves several people living with bipolar disorder, I’m deeply grateful for how Deb Francis illuminates not only the internal experience of mania, but also the roles loved ones can play in offering support. The author is equal parts vulnerability and optimism, showing us the power of storytelling to make sense of chaos—and the strength it takes to write through pain. This book is such a gift to so many.”

-Christine Wolf
Memoir Coach, Founder of Write to Heal Workshops & Retreats, and author of Politics, Partnerships & Power: The Lives of Ralph E. and Marguerite Stitt Church, Former Columnist with Chicago Tribune’s Pioneer Press

“Deb Francis’ story will touch your heart. She is an award-winning speaker who was recognized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness for her ability to use the story of her personal journey with mental illness to help and inspire others. Her warmth, wisdom, sincerity and humor will give you new insights and positively change the way you think about mental illness. Deb’s story will bring tears to your eyes and will leave you with a smile on your face”

-Ken Norton, Former NAMI NH Executive Director

“Growing up with my sister Debbie was a journey of love, resilience, and understanding. Despite her struggles with mental illness for over 40 years, her courage and strength have always shone through, teaching everyone the importance of empathy and patience. She’s not just my sister; she’s a hero to all who meet her, showing us the beauty of unconditional love even in the most challenging times.”

-Sister

“I had the opportunity to work with Deb several times over a few years. At the time, she was associated with NAMI NH, and I was organizing panel discussions as part of in-service training for employees of the state court system in New Hampshire. Deb played an integral part on the panel and was consistently a highlight when speaking to the audience. She had a unique way of relating to everyone and always held their attention.

Deb describes her journey through mental illness in a particularly relatable and poignant way. The story of her life, struggles, recovery, and successes significantly impacted those who heard her. Her dedication and commitment to bringing awareness to mental illness issues is unwavering. Her knowledge and understanding of the issues give her a unique perspective on the subject, and her ability to share that perspective with others is a gift.”

-Joan Bishop

“Deb’s story brings hope to anyone who has struggled with a mental health condition. Deb shares a courageous life journey that illustrates the strength to persevere despite the challenges that mental illness can present. What Deb has to offer is an inspiration and a gift.”

-Elaine deMello

“I met Deb in 2009 through the program In Our Own Voice at NAMI NH when I was going through a time in my own mental health life journey as it was changed forever after losing a friend to suicide. Deb selected me to be co-state trainor for IOOV with her. She became my mentor, my friend and taught me how to navigate life with living with my own diagnosis. She taught me how to have a voice so I could share my own story in a safe effective way to help others. Through her compassion and desire for advocacy for mental health I was able to accept and understand my own journey too.

She has become more than a mentor to me and is one of my dearest friends. She continues to educate, inspire and encourage all of us whose lives have been touched by mental illness. This book is going to help so many people by giving hope and understanding how to live successfully with a mental health condition like she did for me.”

-Cabrinni Kulish