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The Third Man Syndrome 2023

My visit to Belleville General Hospital in August 2023 was a pivotal moment that positively transformed my life. While it wasn’t an easy experience, I recognized that the challenges I faced during that time were crucial for my growth, and I knew I needed to navigate this journey with intention.

After my initial discharge from the emergency department, I strongly wanted to contact Constables Walden and Smith at the Belleville Police Service regarding my experiences. While the police station couldn’t provide the assistance I hoped for, I realized this was just a step in a longer process. I soon returned to the emergency room, reflecting on my unsettling encounter.

The memory of my run-in with that individual haunted me, manifesting as vivid nightmares about the numerous ways those situations could have spiralled out of control had I not managed them with care. Yet beneath this turmoil, I sensed a protective force guiding me toward resilience and understanding.

A familiar voice emerged in my mind, like an old friend providing insight during a moment of strife.

"...Fine, Andrew.
 
You're my favourite lab-rat, whatever.
 
This is reality, and that's the whole point.

If you can see your part in both sides of your conflicts, I can help you heal..."


Curious about this benevolent presence, I delved deeper, aware of its intention to support my mental health. It approached my thoughts respectfully and honestly, guiding me,

"You’re creative. That’s pretty much it. You’re actually a pretty cool guy."

This presence reminded me that I must work diligently to prevent future crises. I wanted to ensure I wouldn't regress into old patterns and appreciated its straightforwardness.

As I pondered the nature of my guiding presence, I speculated whether a divine element might be at play. My mind's mysteries seemed to contain light and shadow, and I was learning to navigate them.

As night stretched on, another voice emerged, soothing and familiar. It whispered thoughts that felt both welcoming and odd, 

“When my mother found out what D. Martin #58 said to you, she actually died…”

The morning brought a flurry of unsettling thoughts. A troubling scenario began to haunt me, where two parents aided their ailing child in pursuing medically assisted suicide, telling their child,

"You’re the only good thing left in the world, and we’re giving you to Dumbledore."

This unsettling imagery mirrored my own theory; at some point a police officer asking a doctor on my behalf,

"Andrew is scary, and we don’t know what he wants. If we can’t figure out what to do with Andrew Parrott, he's going to jail. You gotta help us, doc! Can you suggest anything?"

Despite the uncertainty that plagued my thoughts, I knew I had no choice but to spend time in Sills 5 for observation and support. Returning to the hospital wasn’t just a necessity; it felt like a calling. Stepping into that environment, I felt a renewed sense of hope. I could see that I was part of a team working toward healing and understanding. My journey had led me to a new chapter, filled with potential and optimism. I embraced this experience and was motivated to learn, grow, and thrive within this newfound sense of belonging.

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