The Ego Has Landed

Bryan Hopkins

Jun. 2011 · Chipmunkapublishing ltd

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DescriptionIt is three years since the death of my grandfather. You could say that he was beaten by cancer, although in my heart, knowing how he suffered throughout his life with mania, I couldn't say who won. I often consider whether he is now happier, free from the constraints of a 'socially unacceptable' illness. People who suffer from depression should pull themselves together- right? It is understandable why some people think like this- doesn't everyone suffer from depression?When I tell people that my grandfather suffered from manic depression, they often look at me with a misguided, knowing look; "ah yes" they think, "I've felt sad sometimes." This is the point when I get the desire to shake them until their eyes fall out! If I'm honest, I cannot possibly comprehend how it must have been for him. Some days he would wake up and the world was so grey - black even- that the idea of plummeting hundreds of feet from a multi-story car park was preferable to being alive. Other days, I remember him frantically writing, drawing, possessed by a passion for a new plan; it could be anything, my Nan, Brother and I were often guests at our own family 'Mad Hatter's Tea Party'. My Granddad created Brain Clubs, Mind Map Clubs, Writing Clubs; I remember all of us sitting around the dining room table, surrounded by masses of multi-coloured stationary, my Granddad excitedly waving his arms causing wind to flutter his wispy silver hair.The 'The Ego Has Landed' is about my Grandfather's courageous battle with life; from being given the name of his 'mental illness' to his journey with cancer. He was an inspirational, passionate man. I really miss you Birty, but I hope you're there when I graduate! Charlotte Easter