I could start my story by saying that my life began in April of 1977, but that wouldn't be entirely accurate.
I was born for the first time in 1977, but my life didn't truly begin until 30 years later when I accepted Jesus and was "born again". At a young age I experienced sexual abuse from a family member who was babysitting us. As an adolescent I began to blame my father for this because even though he wasn't the one who abused me, I felt as though he hadn't done his job as a gather to protect me. When I entered my teenage years I began drinking to numb myself. The only time I ever felt normal and safe was when I was drinking. When I was sober I felt dirty, ashamed, and scared. In my twenties aI was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder and was put on medication. Of course I was still drinking heavily. I ended up twice in a mental hospital and a few detox centers.
I couldn't stop myself. I wanted to die. My family relationships were strained, especially the fragile relationship with my dad. We barely spoke and I couldn't be trusted due to my addiction. When I lost my job and my home my dad refused to take me in. At the age of 30, I hit my rock bottom. My body was about to give out due to excessive alcohol abuse and lack of any actual food.
I had neglected myself completely. I passed out one day and stopped breathing. God had his hand on me, and miraculously three hours later I was sitting up talking. My dad agreed to help me if I would agree to seek treatment. My aunt had heard of Freedom Village USA at her church and one week later I was here on campus. Just one day after coming to Freedom Village USA, I was kneeling at the alter accepting Christ. I had felt Him calling me so many times before, but had always rejected the truth. Thankfully He called me again that night and I surrendered. I was made completely new!!! Gone were the feelings of guilt, shame, and fear. Jesus gave me a new heart and a new purpose. After graduating the program, I was hired as staff.
I now work in the boys learning center teaching our high school age boys, and I also work in the boys dorm. I am the director of the Victory Singers and get to travel and share what God has done in my life.
I met and married my best friend here in October of 2010. My once estranged father was my best man! God has been so good to us and we can't praise Him enough! There is nothing that He can't forgive, cleanse, heal, and change if we only allow Him to.
"Transforming Troubled Youth Through Christ" - Freedom Village USA
