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Julie Ash's avatar

Kudos to Jake and his mother Lisa for sharing about Jake's illness and to Clayton for writing about it. Schizophrenia is an absolutely devastating illness, and unless you've experienced it firsthand, or through a friend or family member, you have no idea the total destruction it can cause. And in some ways, that is the worst part: except perhaps for your doctor, no one really understands. My son is just two years older than Jake and has always been a huge fan of Star Wars. He will be deeply consoled to know that Jake has also battled this illness and that a fellow sufferer is winning the war.

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brent sweeting's avatar

Jake is a national treasure. Clayton, next time you interact with them, please share the following: Yoda’s instructions to Luke were to pass on what he had learned, not just the victories and the studies, but the struggles and lessons as well. Jake and his family are following in Jedi Master fashion for sure.

As a result of them sharing their story, more people will be exposed to the realities of schizophrenia, and more people will be able to compassionately receive the care and assistance to help them find peace. You never know who might read these articles and who they might talk to and how those conversations might positively affect real world decisions for someone involving care or understanding of someone suffering. Star Wars may be what gets attention to these articles, but ultimately love and compassion is what’s being shared (which I’d argue is what Star Wars is really all about), and we have Jake and his Mom (and you Clayton) to thank for that… ❤️🙏🏻🧘🏻‍♂️

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Harvey Hamer's avatar

This is a lovely piece, such great news!

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Clayton Sandell's avatar

Thank you!

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Tyler Robbins's avatar

Jake and I are about the same age, and when I saw Episode I as a kid, I wanted to be friends with him so we could talk about Star Wars together (being 10, that was rather all-consuming!). These days I would love to tell him that I'm very happy to know that he's in a much better place and that none of the hate influenced his mental health like I feared it had. You go, Jake!

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Neel Shah's avatar

Thank you for sharing this. Very glad to see Jake is doing much better.

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Andy Lemiere's avatar

Thank you Clayton, that was a great read

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Andy Lemiere's avatar

Where can I read the first article, from his mother?

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Dave's avatar

I hope Jake knows how much he has contributed to so many people’s lives. I’m glad to hear that things are moving in a positive direction and hope for the best for him

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Jay Sanders's avatar

I never understood why people gave him such a hard time. It is true that the character that he played was rather preposterous and a bit silly, but that's Lucas's fault, not his. He did a good job and he does not deserve all the vitriol that he got.

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Craig Jauvtis's avatar

We always loved Jake. I hate hate hate how the press blamed toxic fans when they were the ones who made fun of his acting. The same goes for Best. The media mocked the character. We still get blamed for that. Keep on fighting Jake

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Doctor Squatch's avatar

This is incredible. What an encouraging and well-written article. I wish all the best to Jake and am so glad he feels the love and support from us fans!

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Benjamin Spears's avatar

So great to hear Jake is doing well! Lots of fans are cheering for him!

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Carlos Esteban Muñoz's avatar

#ForceStrong Jake !!

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Joebacca's avatar

The Force and the fans will be with you Mr Loyd-always. Wishing you much peace and good health in the New Year!

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Alan's avatar

With so many people the same age as Jake and myself having serious medical conditions these days, it’s really nice to hear he’s doing much better. I’m going to share his story with my best friend who is on his third cancer battle in three years at the age of 35 as a source of inspiration. I know it isn’t the same thing, but it might help. Mental Health is very real and very important but can also be very difficult to deal with. I hope Jake knows there are people out here who love and support him and that sincerely want him to get well enough to be able to do the things he loves. He truly deserves that. We’re rooting for you buddy!!

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Clayton Sandell's avatar

Thanks Alan! Take care!

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Angelique Fawns's avatar

What a nice, positive piece. Well done.

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Clayton Sandell's avatar

Thank you!

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John's avatar

Mental health is just so critical, and it's so much more difficult in the glare of the spotlight. But it's important to remember that schizophrenia is treatable.

I hope that Jake Lloyd finds peace and contentment.

I hope he knows how many people in the world enjoy his work, and wish him well.

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Clayton Sandell's avatar

He does, John! Thank you!

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