It was recommended to me to write this book by my psychiatrist. Currently I have been diagnosed with severe ADHD and Cumulative PTSD coupled with Autonomic Dyskinesia, Reactive Airway Disease and an Acincratic reaction to most meds making medicating me exceedingly difficult for any Physician.  Mental illness is something I struggle with on an ongoing basis. It is better at times and more manageable at times but other times it doesn’t go like that. Some days it feels impossible to move forward. Actually you know what!?  Forget moving forward, how about just getting out of bed or finding the will to do any basic life task. I’m often trying to seclude myself from everyone, and feel like if I open up to them they will judge me or think I’m crazy. I think sometimes we try to convince ourselves the judgment of others doesn’t bother us. I know I do. In reality it does.  It bothers me a whole lot and causes me to be very self conscious and bring every aspect of my life into question, and that is something I am currently working on. The intent of this autobiography, is to not only share my story but also to let you the readers know, you are not alone. There are so many people out there having the same or similar experiences and traumas as you. This book will talk about all the things no one wants to talk about. You’ll read about, faith, joy, silliness, excitement, triumphs, goals, success and accomplishments. But, you will also read about my abuse, trauma, bullying, betrayal, survival, suicide, depression, triumphs and failures, paranoia, and parenting struggles. Sounds like a lot right? But I’ve been through it all and am still dealing with most of them currently. My only hope for this is that some of you will find the little pieces of my story, in all of this, that you can relate to or help you to relate to someone else. I hope somehow it helps you along your life’s journey.

-Ashley