DAN’s diary begins with an accounting of her life, beginning with her childhood, as she remembers it. Interspersed with these memories are descriptions of things she saw and/or heard from the voices and demons that harassed her. Occasionally, DAN's commentary changes to become that of a prayer to God.

Despite her illness, or perhaps because of it, DAN was a remarkable artist. Most of her drawings show a gentleness and peace not found in her own life. Many have a distinctly spiritual theme. It is perhaps fortunate for the viewer that she declined to draw the demons she saw throughout her life.

DAN’s story is a sad, painful vision of life in turmoil. As an untreated victim of serious mental illness, she had no hope for a healthy, happy life. It is hoped, with the eventual publication of her journals, that those in the medical profession can find some inspiration in helping, not only other victims of mental illness, but also their families, friends, and caregivers.

For obvious reasons, the editor has been asked to keep DAN’s name and that of family members, friends, and locations confidential. For this reason, names and places are either changed or left blank.