Macala’s mother has suffered from bipolar disorder all Macala’s life. Macala is 25. Although Macala’s mother took medication, this was not always adequate or effective – in the past, Macala was able to stay with relatives or friends if the relationship between mother and daughter became fraught.
Earlier this year however, Macala’s mother suffered a manic episode so severe that Macala was forced to leave her family home in Enfield. With nowhere to stay, Macala contacted Eaves and they provided her with emergency shelter in Enfield before referring her to Shelter from the Storm. Macala joined us in mid January, returning to a part of London well known to her in her childhood – her grandfather lived in Angel.
Initially she was nervous about her employment prospects but a month after settling in to the shelter she found work in West London. She enjoys her new job, and the company of her colleagues, considerably. Next week Macala will move into a room in North London. She is excited about the move and looking forward to decorating her new bedroom. Recently Macala reestablished contact with her mother and they are taking tentative steps towards rebuilding their relationship.