One could easily believe that the reserved, soft-spoken Patty Busch is wealthy and owns land in France. But that was just one of the delusions her illness set up in her mind.

Originally diagnosed in 1982 with Manic-Depressive Illness, Patty was able to manage her illness with Lithium. When she began having side effects from the medication, however, she began to have trouble managing her job. Ultimately, she was forced to leave behind her career as an accounting technician and budget analyst.

For 15 years Patty refused medications in hopes that she could manage her illness without them, but the disease continued its grip on her. At the height of her illness, Patty flew to France to retrieve money she believed she had there. The trip took a turn for the worse when she lost the suitcase and purse that held her credit cards, passport and return ticket. Her two-week trip to France included sleeping on the floor in the airport and a short stay in a French psychiatric hospital before the United States Embassy was able to help her return to the U.S.

With the persistence of her son, Patty was admitted to the Kitsap Mental Health Services Adult Inpatient Unit where she received the counseling and medications she so desperately needed. During the next four years, the KMHS treatment staff worked with Patty to find the best medications to manage her disease with the fewest side effects. Patty continues to meet with her treatment coordinator and a nurse who monitors her medications.

Today, life is a gentler place for Patty. In March 2004 she began working as a receptionist at KMHS and continues working at this job. Rather than the fantasy of having riches in France, Patty now enjoys life’s real treasures. These include weekly dances, potlucks with friends, and spending time with her son and his family.