Timberlawn- An Untold Story

By Matthew Wilmshorst

Based on a true story that happened in the mid 1980's in the Timberlawn Behavioral Health System. My time there as a young boy was far from pleasant. The experiences I had were not suitable for anyone, and no child should have to endure such treatment.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Matthew Wilmshorst
• Release date: Mar 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215679944

Book preview

Checked into Timberlawn

As we headed towards Timberlawn hospital, fear crept over me. My mother had informed me that I would have to stay there until I was deemed better.

I had previously been admitted to the psychiatric ward at Children's Medical Center following an assault by my stepfather. After spending a month there, I was discharged and returned to my mother. Thus, I was familiar with the treatment protocols and unwilling to undergo the same experience again.

Despite my pleas, my mother continued driving toward Timberlawn hospital. As we arrived, I saw a large white house that served as the administrative office. Reluctantly, I got out of the car and walked up the wooden porch, and stood in front of the door. My mother was inspecting the signs indicating different locations at the facility. My instincts told me to run, but I resisted the urge and followed my mother inside.

She approached a lady and spoke to her while I nervously waited. When she was finished, my mother came and sat next to me, trying to comfort me by saying that everything would be okay and that the doctor would see us soon.

After a short wait, a lady called us into an office where we met with the doctor. He asked us a few questions before having my mother and I sign several forms. He then gave my mother a list of items she could bring for me. As they talked, a nurse entered the room and instructed me to bid farewell to my mother and follow her.

I pleaded with my mother, one last time, to take me home, but she remained resolute in her decision to leave me there. With a heavy heart, I hugged her tightly and wept as I left the office with the nurse.

As she led me through the halls of the facility, I felt lost and alone. The sight of numerous patients grappling to maintain focus, intermittently gazing in my direction