Dear Natalie:

I'm glad that you're still around.

I guess that not all is lost if you can view this with a bit of humor.
On the other hand, this was pretty serious, you were almost irrevocably dead.

Your stories sounded interesting, such a wide swath of humanity.
I just finished reading "Girl, Interrupted", Susanna Kaysen, about two years in a psychiatric clinic.
As you mentioned, two years voluntary commitment is not the norm today.
Then there is also "The Bell Jar" and "The Last Time I Wore a Dress".

Wow things have changed

I'm just glad your still among us

I'm also here if you ever need a friend to talk to

Natalie:

First off, let me bitch slap you.  Then hug you.  *A LOT*

Please read the entry in my blog, "A Note About Suicide":
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,68939.0.html

My brother just recently killed himself.  You may have resolved and accepted the devastation you would have visited on your family and friends.  But their pain would never be eased.  You would be truly missed.  I hope that you are recovering and seeking the help that you need.  Remember that you are loved.

I too have been to that precipice so I can understand how the darkness can overwhelm you.  But if you reach out, there will always be someone to help you.

Your rescue and recovery must truly be viewed as a miracle and a gift.  Accept it, treasure it.

You ain't done yet, so quit trying to quit the game! 

Feel free to PM me if you like.

-Sandy