Re: “Mentally ill need a better system,” Jan. 6.

So true. I know a person who is 37 and has schizophrenia. His journey has been a rollercoaster throughout his life and has been troublesome for his loved ones and himself. Yes, the system is broken. He has been homeless, eaten out of Dumpsters, been beaten, raped and robbed. Now this sysem corrals him somewhat like a prison.

People come out of university saying they know what’s best. Government dictates it knows what’s best. This person, like others I have talked to, is not stupid and they all fight the system in their own ways. They, too, do not trust the system.

What I have seen and come to know is that the mentally ill have much fewer rights than you and I. This person has told me repeatedly that he gets no respect. If only they would treat him as you and I would like to be treated, with love, care and respect, then perhaps we can put the system on the right track.

All this person wanted was to be heard, loved and respected. Is that hard?

Some individuals do listen but the system does not. This person is still waiting. Not all workers are cold — I have met many great people in the system who too are frustrated with the system and I thank them all.

It’s about time we listened to the people with these illnesses and gave them the compassion, love, care and respect that we all take for granted. It is time for change.

Jerry Emerick

Victoria.

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