Judy’s emotional book

Book’s tale of family’s fight for Tansie’s future

Adetermined Bromsgrove mum’s story of her beloved daughter has been turned into a book which she hopes will inspire other families in similar situations.

Hidden Illness is based on diaries that Judy Millinchip wrote chronicling Tansie’s schizophrenia diagnosis at the age of 13 and her fight to receive treatment.

Judy told Completely Bromsgrove: “Tansie was diagnosed back in 1981 and the book records all the trials and tribulations we went through.

“She tried to commit suicide several times but we kept on pushing to get the right support and medication for her.

“Once that was in place Tansie started to improve and now, aged 53, she’s a very independent lady who has been a fantastic support to me, my husband Martin and her younger brother Charles during lockdown.”

Judy said that initially she thought that Tansie’s behaviour, which included wanting to stay in her room all the time during a family holiday to Spain, was related to being a teenager.

After doctors and a psychologist failed to accurately diagnose her, an educational psychologist confirmed what they had suspected and Tansie was admitted to hospital.

Following treatment at Hollymoor Hospital in Northfield and in Kidderminster, Tansie was moved to an adolescent unit in Bromsgrove where she began to turn a corner.

Tansie sees her family regularly, keeps herself busy with jobs around her flat – though Judy does have to remind her about doing the vacuuming! - and enjoys social and educational activities such as cinema and English lessons.

“My message to other families who find themselves in situations like ours is to keep on fighting for your child and for their right to receive proper support,” said Judy.

“What I really want is for the book to be a valuable resource to show what can be achieved and how families can come through difficult times.”

Hidden Illness, which retails for £4.99, is available from Charles’s shop, Branded4U in Hewell Road, Barnt Green Tel: 0121 445 3262 or directly from Judy via email - judy.martin.815@btinternet.com