We need to laugh about life’s challenges

In response to Molly McEleney's April 19 letter “Don't take subject of mental illness lightly” about Lenore Skenazy's April 14 article “Mental illness? It's normal to be crazy in this world.”

In defense of the article, I love her writing. I laughed so hard and even clipped the piece to read to my dear 88-year-old brother-in-law. In today's world, the daily tasks seem overwhelming and we all need a great laugh daily and laugh I did.

Do I take mental illness seriously? You betcha. Been there, done that and it wasn't fun. I have a senior brother in Maryland who lost his dear wife three years ago and has tried twice to take his life.

I have worked and cared for the mentally ill and will continue. It is not a joke, nor do I think the writer was making light of it. I am a senior helping seniors with many needs. I value what I do, but there are days my body and mind say you cannot face another challenge, but when I pick up my paper and can get a great chuckle, I know I want to go on.

Lighten up, people. Help where and when you can and smile as often as you like.

Linda Wordehoff

Cedar Rapids