Sioux Falls, South Dakota (KELO) – The effects of illness can take a toll on the body and mind. Olivia Anderson has been dealing with her health issues this past year, and she wants to use her story to highlight the importance of mental health in her treatment.
When we last spoke, Olivia Anderson was recovering from multiple brain and breast surgeries.
“I felt ready for life. I felt that I could take on any challenge. I felt that nothing was impossible,” Anderson said.
But in July she had to return to the hospital to be treated for an inoperable brain tumor.
“When I got back to the hospital, it set me back. I had to use a walker I had never used before, which lowered my self-esteem and really… occupied space here. I felt like I wasn’t doing enough for myself and others just by being there,” Anderson said.
As a result of treatment, she has limited mobility and requires more caregiver support. Over the next few months, she began battling depression and suicidal thoughts.
“Something kept telling me that you weren’t worthy, you were suffering too much, so take your own life, it wouldn’t get better,” Anderson said.
After seeking mental health treatment, Anderson began seeking support from close friends.
Friend Monica Karaczynski said, “When you’re willing to step onto someone’s battlefield, I think that’s how you strengthen your bond.
Anderson says she recognizes that she is more than just her illness and wants to use her story to inspire others to speak up and seek mental health help.
“When someone has 30 seconds of their time to give to you and no one else is willing to give it to you, it means a lot to you. Because I had someone to spend with me,” Anderson said.
Karasinski created Go Fund Me for Olivia in hopes of easing her financial burden.you can find that link here.
