Ida and Tansy* didn’t set out to become friends, let alone a crucial part of each other’s healing journey. But through their shared experience living in Buckelew’s Residential Support Services (RSS), the pair have formed an unexpected bond that forever changed both of their lives.

Ida, who has a paranoid schizophrenia diagnosis, moved to the residence in 2014 for the 24-hour support, case management and safe environment offered by RSS. As she settled into the cozy two-story home tucked in a quiet Marin County neighborhood, she began leading an active, vibrant and relatively independent life. She filled the house with plants and ceramics; treasures found during frequent Goodwill trips.

But in 2021, Ida’s life took a difficult turn. Diagnosed with severe cataracts, her world began to darken both literally and figuratively. Ida refused to acknowledge her vision loss and declined surgery. She spent the next three years secluded in her dark bedroom, leaving only to eat or smoke.

Tansy arrived in early 2024, after a decade of living in various board-and-care homes and locked facilities across California. The 54-year-old, who has a diagnosis of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, was known for her disruptive outbursts, incoherent speech and paranoia. There were concerns about whether she would get along with staff or the other residents.

Psychologist John Coleman, an RSS team leader at Buckelew, recalls tensions rising immediately after Tansy was placed in a shared bedroom with Ida, who is 57. The two clashed, complaining about each other’s habits and behaviors.

However, as the months passed, something shifted. With the consistent support of RSS staff, Tansy began to settle in her new home. The frequent outbursts began to subside.

“In four short months, she became a very respectful and dependable resident, always offering to help with chores and making pleasant relationships with the other residents and staff,” John says.

As Tansy grew more comfortable, she surprised the staff by becoming an active member of the household. She made the backyard chicken coop her special project: feeding the hens, cleaning the coop, and collecting their pink and blue eggs.

Tansy also began looking out for Ida. She delivered her coffee, helped her choose outfits and encouraged her to engage more with her surroundings. Tansy brought music and laughter into their shared room, playing songs and dancing around the space. Ida, once isolated in darkness, began to sing along.

A pivotal moment solidified their new friendship. Ida’s sedentary lifestyle had put her at risk of losing muscle strength and developing diabetes. John initiated a difficult conversation with Ida about the urgent need to reengage with life beyond her bedroom, emphasizing that she was too young to give up on her life.

Something clicked. Ida immediately asked Tansy to go for a walk.

“I looked up from my computer, and there they were – Ida and Tansy – hand-in-hand, walking through the house together,” John says. “Ida turned to me and said, ‘Look, John, I do have strength. I’m going to walk with Tansy each day and get better and stronger.’”

The two women continue to take these daily walks – sometimes twice daily – always holding hands. These walks have become a cornerstone of their routine.

What began as a contentious relationship has transformed into a partnership rooted in mutual care and healing. At home, Tansy dresses up, laughs and sings. Ida, sitting on the edge of her bed, listens with a smile. She tells John that hearing Tansy’s laughter brings her joy.

“They created a supportive bond that has helped each other flourish in the program,” John says.

Ida and Tansy’s story is a testament to the power of human connection and the healing potential of supportive housing. At Buckelew, they found more than a place to live—they found each other.