"Munchhausen Syndrome by Proxy, which is something I actually only know a little bit about. Most of what I know is from watching Mommy Dead and Dearest, to be honest." — Britt
"According to the Treatment Advocacy Center, people with severe mental illness are, you're not even gonna leave this. Actually, you should believe this. Up to 11 times more likely to be victims of violent crimes than the rest of the population." — Ashley Flowers
"According to the National Institute for Mental Health, more than 80 percent of bipolar disorder cases are severe and the other 20 percent are classified as moderate. No mild." — Britt
The episode delves into the baffling disappearance of Diane Ogget, a 40-year-old woman diagnosed with severe bipolar disorder (then known as manic depression) who vanished in April 1998. Having recently been released from a mental health facility and residing with her sister, Diane's disappearance was marked by a series of confusing and disturbing clues, including a cryptic voicemail and the discovery of her severed fingertip. The narrative explores the complexities of bipolar disorder, emphasizing its potential to cause severe mood swings, impact judgment, and its often lengthy diagnostic process. It highlights how misdiagnosis and inconsistent treatment adherence can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with this condition.
The investigation into Diane's disappearance was hampered by a lack of immediate concrete evidence and the unusual nature of the clues. Early leads included a bartender's sighting at a tavern, the discovery of her fingertip on a highway, and later, a bag of her clothing found in a convenience store freezer, and a bag of toiletries with her name on it at another convenience store. These discoveries, while generating media attention, did not lead to a breakthrough, leaving authorities and her family grappling with speculation about foul play, accidental harm, or even a staged disappearance. The episode also touches upon a potential connection to Gary Evers, who was arrested for murder years later and managed a motel near where Diane's fingertip was found, though no direct link to Diane's case was officially confirmed.
Ultimately, Diane Ogget's case remains unsolved. The episode concludes by underscoring the critical importance of mental health awareness, destigmatization, and support systems. It emphasizes that individuals with bipolar disorder often face significant misunderstandings and that their experiences, particularly during manic episodes, can have severe real-world consequences. The hosts encourage listeners to reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling, providing resources for mental health support and reminding the audience that they are not alone.