Prison Journal: Day 7,935

May 1, 2009

Today I finished writing an article about a former CEO who attempted suicide as a response to embezzlement problems. The man struggled with bipolar disorder, and he said that mood swings compelled his actions that led to imprisonment. When I interviewed him for the story, I was trying to gather information for Professor Jana Schrenkler’s ethics class. I did not know about the man’s mental health problems.

Many people in prison suffer from mental disorders. The newspapers have been reporting recently on how prisons have became the de facto mental institutions because the states have been diverting money from health care to corrections. These types of environments lack the personnel to work with the disabled. In camps like the one where I am confined now, the problem is not as pronounced as in higher security facilities. I still feel very fortunate to serve those final months of my sentence at Taft Camp. By far, it is the easiest prison where I have been confined.

I began my work at 2:30 this morning. I ran 10 miles and followed with some light strenght training. My running tally is 1,233 miles over the past 140 days. I spent the remainder of the day editing the sample chapter from the new book proposal. I think it is stronger after the four hours I spent going over it. I will edit again tomorrow, then work on the front material for the proposal.

Carole and I did not visit today. She is planning to visit toward the end of this month, after she settles into her new residence. I’m okay with this adjustment to our schedule because we planned for the suspension together. Someday we won’t have to endure these long separations, but as a prison family they are a part of our life. I will use the extra time to advance my writing projects.

Friday, 1 May 2009

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Posted by Michael Santos | Filed Under Prison Journal 

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During his 23+ years of continuous confinement in federal prisons of every security level, Michael Santos has emerged as one of the leading voices on America's prison system and the need for prison reform.Learn more about Michael’s specific efforts, achievements, and contributions.


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