Letty Casazza
Paying It Forward with Gratitude

“I’m alive today because I went to Menninger many years ago,” says Letty Casazza. Letty has dissociative disorder—which means that when she’s under stress, she can “disappear” involuntarily. People usually develop dissociative disorder in reaction to extreme trauma as a way for the mind to escape reality.

“I've never forgotten the kindness and the intelligence of Menninger’s staff, doctors, nurses, and social workers,” she says. “They delved deeply into my traumas and taught me the pathology of my illness and how to stay grounded.”

At one point in Letty’s life, the episodes of dissociation were occurring daily; and it was so debilitating that she considered suicide. Letty sometimes lost entire days and couldn’t focus enough to do the things she loves, like watercolor painting.

Through the daily living and coping tools Letty learned at Menninger, she greatly reduced her episodes of dissociation. When she returned home, she sustained her recovery by nurturing her passion for rescuing horses. She even began painting again—her life’s blood.

Letty’s horses are named Bubbles and Winston. Even though arthritis keeps her from riding them, they are with her because they contribute to her mental well-being.

“We are part of the same herd,” Letty says. “They accept me unconditionally without judgement or blame.”

Letty is grateful to Menninger for restoring her ability to lead a productive and meaningful life. “I’ve chosen to remember Menninger in my will because I want to ensure other people are also helped and restored to wellness,” she says.