Book triumphs over pain

IT’S hard to imagine that the tragic experiences of Rod Groenhuizen’s life could ever be turned to joy; that 20 years of pain and isolation, could ever evolve to triumph.
His mother, Val Groenhuizen, says his book, Undiagnosed Up Until Now, provides that joy and triumph for her son, and hope for others.
Written by Rod in the 12 months before he took his own life at 33, and published in December last year, the book is a raw and personal account of living with mental illness.
Rod lived through 20 years of panic/anxiety disorders, multiple breakdown, depression and, although not diagnosed until he was 27, chronic fatigue syndrome.
During the last year of his life it was discovered he had Scotopic Sensisitivity Irlen Syndrome (SSIS) a visual perceptual disorder, which if not addressed in childhood can have the devastating consequences Rod endured throughout his life.
Val and Rod’s sister Wanda compiled the book, which was published with financial assistance from community groups and individuals including Healesville Rotary, Mooroolbark Lions Club and Armaguard.
Rotary member Peter Skilbeck said there was no discussion about whether the club should support the book.
“That someone is able to write with such clarity and express their feelings and experiences so honestly we believed would be a great help to others who may not be able to do that.”
He urged men to read it.
“They might be a bit afraid but I think it is important that we know about mental illness. This is written by a man who doesn’t hide things, doesn’t make excuses, just tells it like it is,” he said.
Val said the book was Rod’s plea to be heard.
“It is a plea on behalf of all who suffer mental illness to be accepted and understood by the community,” she said.
Undiagnosed Up Until Now is available locally at Healesville Newsagents and the Natural Therapy Centre, and down the line at a number of outlets including Collins Booksellers in Chirnside Park and Croydon. It can be ordered on-line through the website at www.freewebs.com/undiagnosed