After the garden idea did not work out I was instructed to find ways to get the clients, some with schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder, out into the community to interact with people in a normal structured fashion. I decided the best way to get them out into the public was to jump into the deep-end and take them to a spring training game.
Even though it was early March, it was still close to 100 degrees. The sun was shining and of course, there was no breeze. The clients were excited about getting out of the resident hall and having a sense of purpose. We took twenty clients, some with mild mental illness, and some with quite severe ones. If I told you I was not nervous that would be a lie. Although there were five other "chaperons" attending, this was my trip and my idea. What if one of the clients lashed out at someone, or started a fight, or or or........ My head was spinning and running through every worst case scenario I could think of.
It finally came time to load everyone up into the vans and make our way to the Cubs' spring training facility in Mesa. We got to the stadium and everyone seemed fine. We made our way to our seats, and still no problems. I began to relax as I realized that despite their problems and illnesses, these are people just like you and me and they want to relax and enjoy the game just as much as I did. We left in the 7th after the score reached 11-2. We loaded back into the vans and made our way back to 12th ave and Monroe. Overall the trip served its purpose; to seamlessly integrate individuals with a sever mental illness into the broader community.
I was scared at first because these people may be unpredictable. But I learned a valuable lesson in humility. I am no better than these people, they just have a harder time dealing with life.
What an awesome thing you did Clay! I personally would like to thank you for doing this. I have a 32 year old brother with mental disabilities. He's an awesome lovable person but, could get a little bit challenging when he transforms into an aggressive person. The reason I thank you is because people like you make people like my brother and many others with disabilities feel like they belong. They of course my not know if they do or don't but, there's people out there that see them like monsters.
ReplyDeleteIt's fun to hear my brother telling us about his trips to the mall, movies, and many other places. My family and I appreciate the humbleness of people like you who dedicate their time to make someone else happy.
Hey Clayton,
ReplyDeleteAwesome idea! Sounds like everyone had a great time and it is so great when members of the community are interacting with these sensitive populations. Sometimes I think people forget that individuals who are having a difficult time in life just need to be treated like anyone else and able to have experiences like ball games in 100 degree weather.
I also appreciate your honesty in discussing your fear about what could happen on a trip like this. I think it is great to hear your experience and the impact it has had on you as well as the clients.
Great post!