She held his hand. He was conscious, sitting up and dressed.
‘How do you feel today son?’ she asked.
The young man looked at his mother with empty eyes, with no sign of recognition, totally unresponsive. Every day for fourteen, she had driven the fifty miles alone, not knowing what she would find in the critical care unit, where he recovered from a massive overdose.
She held it together until she left that day, to meet her friend.
Later, it was the smile on her friend’s face, so caring, that broke her. Two weeks’ worth of tears fell at once.
It’s been ages since I’ve entered Julia’s 100 Word Challenge for Grown Ups, but this week with ‘the smile’ I just had to join in.
It’s also Julia’s 150th prompt, maybe some people have written 15000 words as a result! You can join in if you visit http://jfb57.wordpress.com/2014/09/29/100-word-challenge-for-grown-ups-week150/
Friday October 10th is World Mental Health Day, the focus this year is schizophrenia. To learn more visit http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/world-mental-health-day/world-mental-health-day-2014/
Lucid Gypsy 
I love the constraint of a hundred words, and the wonderful use you make of them. You say so much by suggestion and offer a different perspective on the traumas associated with mental health, that of the family.
Fantastic story in a very short 100 words. You’ve inspired me to get back on the writing horse I used to ride with these 100 word challenges. Thank you for that … AND … for bringing a good tear back from your story.
As you have read on my blog, my mother suffered from Mental Illness.
Making people aware of the suffering of all involved is heartwarming.
❤ hugs ❤ 😍
Wonderful writing. One of my biggest pet peeves is the lack of services available for patients and loved ones struggiing with mental illness. Building awareness with posts like this is so important!
The scene speak volumes of crisis, family, and friendship. Thanks, Gilly. In 100 words too.
A very powerful piece of writing Gilly.
Thanks Gilly for using your precious 100 words for health education.
Very moving!
I was right in there with you, Gilly. You should do this more often. 🙂
is so good to see you back with us Gilly. As always 100 words that speak volumes. Thank you so much for promoting 100wcgu.
An Epic 100-word entry. So cool to bring so much in just 100 words. Well done, Gilly.
I have missed your 100 word series Gilly. I remember some really lovely ones. This poignant story is among your best.