From mental illness to basketball success: Tall Ferns star`s remarkable journey

As Penina Davidson rolls up her sleeve she reveals a long scar running lengthways on the inside of her left arm. It`s a mark she no longer hides, or is ashamed of. Just like the tattoo on the other side, it is a symbol of the journey she has been through dealing with mental illness amid a transcendent sporting career....
....This tall (1.90 metres), athletic Aucklander was diagnosed with bipolar disorder during her sophomore (second) year at Berkeley. Just imagine it: thousands of kilometres from home and family, immersed in an unforgiving elite sporting environment that co-exists, at times uneasily, with an equally demanding education system. And she discovers she has a mental disorder that the medical profession, for the most part, is still largely getting its head around.....   ...more

Bethany`s Notes: This is a MUST read. Davidson`s story is remarkable. Her ability to persevere in the midst of her mental illness showcases her ability to manage what many think impossible. She credits having a good support system around her which greatly helped dealing with the high`s and low`s.