Karen answers Beth

Richard Baer on Nov 8th 2010

Comment by Beth on 03 Nov 2010 at 4:00 am

There has been alot of talk about Kim Noble and knowing Kim like I do as a mother first, an artist second and just happens to have DID. I would like to make some factual remarks. Kim’s artwork has been exhibited for 7 years all over the world, her book “All of me” was written before the Oprah show and is published 2011 and filming in Japan and London had taken place also beofre the Oprah show.

Unlike Dr Baer Kim’s theapist is unable to disclose any clients confidentality even with Kim’s permission, there are other clients with DID to consider. Perhaps in the UK it is different.

Also Kim chose not to interate 16 years ago.

Kim’s daughter Aimee wanted to be a guest on the show and after much discussions Aimee wanted her say. Due to the lack of time on the Oprah show much was cut. Yet it was felt by all professionals working with Aimee and Kim that it would be emotionally damaging for Aimee to be left out.

Beth

Dear Beth,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and opinions. I truly appreciate hearing from you. I have not read much on Kim Noble other than we were once featured in the same magazine article a few years ago. I can understand that people in general have many opinions, and that’s their right, but that doesn’t mean I agree with all I hear or read. I never met Kim Noble, but would have loved to get to know her. I honestly don’t know of anyone who has had the same or similar experiences that I have. I didn’t know she chose not to integrate. I admire her for her decision. In my case, it was in my best interest to integrate. No two multiples are alike; we share a common thread but we are unique in our life experiences. My system was failing and my thoughts of suicide were increasing. I was exhausted all the time. One of my alters, Holdon, felt it was time that we integrated. I really had not thought about it too deeply, but since my alters thought it for the best, then so be it.

That’s great news to hear Kim’s artwork has been exhibited for seven years around the world! I wish I had been more disciplined and not sold away most of my artwork to unknown buyers just to make a few dollars to live on. There was a time during high school when my art was on exhibit along with a few other students, but I only vaguely remember those shows. I admire Kim’s ability to continue her artwork. I stopped my art after integration and have not attempted to continue since then, though I do desire to so some day! Art is still a huge part of me. Maybe I will pick up my brushes and start again. It will be interesting to see what I come up with now that I am whole.

I’m not sure of the ethical differences between countries. I know that Dr. Baer did not disclose any of my therapy without my permission and only after integration was complete. As far as having my daughter appear on any show. It’s not actually something I’m totally against. My daughter is now twenty-five years old and I can’t imagine exposing her to that at thirteen. Although I’m sure she would’ve done great, just like Aimee did, I’ll never know. You may be right, Aimee may stay well and is mature enough to handle being on Oprah. Aimee is mature compared to my daughter at the same age. I believe she did a great job as guest.

I would love to meet Kim Noble in person and chat with her. It would’ve been a privilege to talk with her while she was in Chicago during the Oprah Show taping. For that, I am a bit upset. But I’m grateful that the illness we both share, integration or not, is being talked about. Knowledge is power. And for me that’s all that matters.

Please wish Kim my very best! I am sending my good luck wishes on her film and book. If possible, please ask her to write to me here or on Facebook. I would love to hear from her!

Karen

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