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New York Post

February 25, 2004

Reprinted with permission of the author.

Kendra's Law: A mother's thanks

When my daughter was killed by a man who was not being treated for schizophrenia, all of the joy in this world became diminished for me. It has been a blessing to know that the law named in her memory - Kendra’s Law, which can force mentally ill patients to comply with medical treatment - is helping so many people.

I thank The Post for hailing the recent Court of Appeals ruling upholding the law as a victory for the mentally ill. Kendra’s Law can be a lifeline for those who are suffering from demons similar to those of my daughter’s killer - those hearing voices caused by a severe untreated brain disease, unable to discern the difference between truth and fantasy, incapable of choosing to be treated because they don’t believe they are ill. New York’s Office of Mental Health said that assisted outpatient treatment "has increased accountability at all levels regarding delivery of services to individuals who have high needs and who are at high risk to themselves or others." This law not only commits people to the system, but it commits the system to help those who need it most.

Thank you for helping to educate the public on mental illness and available options for getting those you love into a treatment plan. Kendra’s Law has been proven to reduce incidences of hospitalization, homelessness, arrest and incarceration. Like Kendra, it is about compassion.

- Pat Webdale, Fredonia