Ylena
Bipolar Disorder
PHOTOGRAPHER: Maria Socarras
I was born in Havana, Cuba, obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia University in NY, and my Juris Doctor from FIU College of Law. I am an attorney based in Miami, FL and also a writer and have published five books.
I have Bipolar Disorder, which involves cycling through highs and lows and switching from manic to depressive states. Although I experience many moods in a day and have struggled with doubts and identity issues, God has saved me, again and again.
Most recently, I was blessed with a son, Daniel, who is my miracle. I am grateful for my husband, Andy, and the support of my loving family. I hope to continue writing and to inspire others who have Bipolar Disorder to overcome it by finding strength in faith and love. Although mental illness is often an invisible disability, I have felt ashamed and sometimes compelled to hide my condition. I want to come out of the armor I have built for myself and go public about my battle. I am thankful to have worked with Maria Socarras to create an image which embodies my journey through Bipolarity and I hope it will encourage others to be bold and share their stories, too.
