Meet John

“My doctor recommended that I seek services at Penn Foundation,” says John. “I was open to it and began outpatient counseling about six months ago.” Through counseling, John learned to adjust his expectations of what his life will be like living with pain and chronic illness. He has also gained a better understanding of how his mental health and physical health impact one another– how his depression intensifies his pain and how his medical conditions impact his mood. This understanding, combined with his willingness to acknowledge that his life is different because of his medical issues, has allowed him to improve communication and strengthen relationships within his family.

“I have learned to control my anger, to accept what I can’t change, and to not hold onto things. Because of this, I am able to communicate more openly with my wife, which has dramatically improved our relationship. Our marriage is stronger than it’s ever been,” says John.

While he acknowledges that he’s a “work in progress,” John is determined to continue building on the strides he’s made and to not let his physical and mental health challenges prevent him from enjoying life. He says, “Thanks to Penn Foundation, I now know that whatever happens, I am not alone and I will get through it.”