Three Moms Fight for Their Sons With Schizophrenia

Atavist Magazine looks at the monumental hurdles these families face

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A deeply reported piece in Atavist Magazine follows the stories of three mothers in Colorado Springs whose sons developed schizophrenia, highlighting the immense challenges they faced navigating the healthcare system and fighting for their sons' wellbeing.

Why it matters

Schizophrenia is a complex and debilitating mental illness that often emerges in young adulthood, leaving families to grapple with the lack of comprehensive, coordinated care and support. This story sheds light on the systemic failures that force these mothers to become fierce advocates for their children.

The details

The article centers on the experiences of Tracy, whose son Ben cycled through diagnoses, homelessness, and high medical bills before passing away at 23; Elisabeth, a nurse practitioner who battles doctors and insurers to get her son Luc the effective clozapine treatment he needs; and Felicia, whose son Quentin's psychotic break leads to encounters with police, ERs, and a patchwork of unstable care facilities.

  • The story was published on February 15, 2026.

The players

Tracy

A mother in Colorado Springs whose son Ben developed schizophrenia and faced homelessness and high medical bills before passing away at 23.

Elisabeth

A nurse practitioner in Colorado Springs who fights to get her son Luc the effective clozapine treatment he needs for his schizophrenia.

Felicia

A mother in Colorado Springs whose son Quentin's psychotic break leads to encounters with police, ERs, and unstable care facilities.

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The takeaway

This story highlights the systemic failures that force these mothers to become fierce advocates for their children with schizophrenia, underscoring the urgent need for improved mental healthcare access and coordination to support families facing this devastating illness.