March 24, 2009 by admin
Gentleman's Quarterly just published an amazing in-depth article on Nebraska "Safe Haven" parent Lavennia Coover and the vague legislation that revealed a systemic crisis and made national headlines.
The article speaks of Lavennia Coover's heart-wrenching search for help for her mentally-ill son, and how she ultimately was forced to give up her son under Nebraska's "Safe Haven" law (before age-limits were imposed) in order to ensure he received the help he so desperately needed. You can read the article on their site at:
Response to the GQ article
This article was so well done. It shows so clearly what a painful choice this is for those of us forced into it. It also shows the strong love and support of the family for our children despite impassable obstacles.
I cried through the whole thing. I re-lived our famiy's situation through it. Another mom that I know has not relinquished yet, but might have to at some point. She cried while reading it too. My husband tried to read it today, broke down, and couldn't finish it.
This is proof that a well written article can move people to the most fundamental level of emotion.
It is important to tell our stories publicly. Toni
Telling our stories...
Toni, You are so right. Through the public sharing of our stories, people who have no idea these things are happening (or who don't understand them fully) will be moved and become educated more deeply.
We look forward to producing the individual family stories in the "docu-story" format soon. I think this will be incredibly powerful.
It's so encouraging to be in contact with you - a voice from Illinois!
Melanie