Jim and Wenda’s story
UK
Jim and Wenda were battling severe depression on their own for many years. But, with the help of a Comic Relief funded project in Stoke, they have turned their lives around and are no longer struggling alone. After thirty years working down the mines Jim’s world fell apart. He was suffering from severe anxiety which was exacerbated even further by the breakdown of his marriage. Jim had to leave work, had a breakdown and was admitted into hospital.
Wenda was a teacher in California for many years where she lived happily with her family. Eight years ago they came back to Stoke and within four months her husband - who she had known since she was 12 – died. Wenda fell into a deep depression and at one stage hid away from the world for six months in her house. Wenda says: “I was shunned by my family and told to pull my socks up. That is so not the answer.” For Wenda and Jim, the answer proved to be a centre called the American Clubhouse in their home town of Stoke. It was a life-saver for them, a place where they could come and socialise, get support, find friends, and start to rebuild their lives. After using the club for a number of years, Jim got a job at the American. The clubhouse was also the venue for their love to blossom. They met each other there and over time, their friendship grew into a relationship. Then a year after they got together, during Wenda’s 60th birthday celebrations which were held at the clubhouse, Jim shocked everyone by getting down on one knee and proposing. A completely stunned Wenda tearfully accepted. They both still have ups and downs with their mental health, but with the help of the clubhouse network and their love for each other, they are looking to the future. Jim says; “Wenda means a lot to me, she’s a good woman. Like me she’s got a few problems but no one's perfect.”
Update: Jim and Wenda tied the knot this Valentine's day - here's a picture of the happy couple. We wish them all the best for the future with their lives together.
- Comic Relief is helping to fund 'Time to Change' which is England's most ambitious programme to end discrimination faced by people who experience mental health problems.
Visit the Time to Change website to find out more.
http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/
£100 could pay to run a community café for one day where people with mental health problems can spend time together, get advice and feel less alone. They can face stigma and discrimination so this café gives them a chance to relax and spend time with people who understand what they’re going through.
© Comic Relief 2008. Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England/Wales); SC039730 (Scotland)
Comic Relief