My Origin Story
About Me
In September 2002, I began experiencing mysterious physical symptoms that had no clear answers. Finding those answers would take ten years. Ultimately I was diagnosed with Complex Post Traumatic Stress disorder (CPTSd) with a large side helping of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).
As I worked to learn how to manage my new diagnoses, I discovered my creative side, something that I had only previously been utilized to help me survive years of trauma. I started out just making things for myself, but when friends and neighbors took notice and started making requests, I realized I had discovered something constructive I could do with my time.
I chose the name The Flunky Chicken because years earlier, my close friend and mentor had told me a story from her culture about an eagle who had been raised as a chicken. Similar to the story of the Ugly Duckling, in her culture, the eagle had been shamed and shunned for being different. In the end, the eagle discovered that she wasn't a bad chicken, but was in fact a majestic eagle.
In honor of my friend who saw past all the labels, seeing me for who I was,
I chose the name "The Flunky Chicken" to honor her impact on my life.
Mission
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To bring awareness to the long term impact of developmental trauma
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To advocate for a separate diagnosis of "mental injury," distinguishing from the current diagnosis of "mental illness"
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To advocate for improved treatment approaches that reflect the difference between mental illness and mental injury
Vision
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With the advent of technology, we now have a better understanding of the damage that is done to children's developing nervous systems and neurological health.
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I want to continue to address the stigma around mental health issues in general, while also acknowledging the difference between mental illness and mental injury caused my developmental trauma.
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In addressing the differences, we can better address appropriate treatment and management of these conditions.