After being diagnosed with bipolar
disorder in 1991, Mike retired in 1994 due
to the side effects of his medications.
He describes himself as a computer weenie
who diddles with his computer even though
it's not the same type as what he worked
on when he was employed. A couple of
years ago Mike moved to Lacey, Washington
where he is currently doing renovation
work on his cottage. While his
german shepherd Spot is busy keeping the
cottage lined with fur, Mike is busy with
his many activities to choose from such as
his volunteer services, beekeeping,
woodworking, dancing, yoga, tv and
reading. He also enjoys the
friendships in his single's groups.
Keeping busy and out of the house is
important to him. No doubt we can
understand why his mantra is "Ya' gotta do
SOMEthing between now and when you die".
We asked Mike why he likes to volunteer
with us and this is what he had to say:
"I've been a member of Bipolar World for
some 5 or 6 years, I guess. I was
very honored to be asked to moderate a
couple of topics. Having been
diagnosed so long ago and having learned
to deal with it, AND having a lot of time
on my hands, I feel it's good to help out
others who are new to this diagnosis and
to help younger people who may not be as
patient as I am with my problem - though
I'm not always very patient.
I like Bipolar World and thank goodness
for all the wonderful people I've met
here. I truly consider you friends
and it's great to have such unconditional
approval from everyone. I look
forward to continued membership and
fraternal companionship. Thanks for
the kind award and thanks for being here."
We hope you'll stop in today and meet Mike
in the
"When It's Not Just Bipolar" forum where
he knows no stranger. It's truly his
second nature to extend himself to those
who need a friendly, supportive hand to
help them along the way. Mike, we
feel very fortunate and honored you are
volunteering your services with us at
Bipolar World. Lots of hugs from us
all.
