Oral Histories

The following are oral histories from relatives of people who were lobotomized. The reasons why their loved ones were selected for this barbaric “treatment” varied, but the results were always the same … the ill family member was permanently damaged and everyone who loved them suffered.

While the subject of lobotomy itself is dark and unsettling, these stories are even more difficult to read than you might imagine. They lay bare the pain the victim’s children, spouse, and extended family endured, and the unforeseen ripple-effects the surgery had on their lives.

In Honor of Frances by Barbara

Kings Park by Art Bernstein

Orphaned by Susan Ewell

Remembering Florie by Gia Oliveri

John Meeker: Memories of Lobotomy Victims

John B.: Love’s Labour’s Lost…Along With the Memories

Laurie: Life with Evie

Lynn : My Mother’s Psychosurgery Travesty


Christine Johnson: Learning about Grandma


Carol Noell: Anna Ruth Channels Noell

If you have a story to contribute, please write to: christine@psychosurgery.org