This is a powerful testimony of how a survivor finds the support she needs through Alive at Last to stop the negative cycles in her life.
Vanessa’s Story
My childhood and teen years were a time of confusion and fear. Mental, emotional, and physical abuse were the norm. I didn’t know it then- but those things made me vulnerable to further abuse. My uncle was a pedophile, and one of the first to take advantage of my innocence by sexually molesting me. Then there was sexual contact with other family members which left me feeling worthless and angry.
The abuse from my childhood continued into my young adult years. So I coped with the trauma by working long hours, and over-spending. The stress of my shopping addiction led to substance abuse and addiction. Fear dogged my life as I lived in a vicious cycle.
My financial situation along with my drug addiction caused me to lose custody of my 5 year old daughter. I was more depressed and hopeless than ever. I vowed to get her back at any cost. In the meantime, I discovered I was pregnant. I knew I had to get help or the new baby would be born addicted. I checked into a rehab facility as a last resort. Five months later I gave birth to a healthy baby boy.
My goal is to stop the negative cycles in my life, get custody of my daughter and make a home for my two children. I am most thankful that Alive at Last came to the rehab facility to provide a healing small group. I can now identify life patterns that have kept me trapped. I was matched with a mentor who helped me rediscover my dreams and think about my future. I want to start my own business someday!
I still feel afraid. But I have support emotionally and spiritually that I have never had before. I am so thankful for my Alive at Last family.
Help more women like Vanessa to be served by Alive at Last by giving to our Free to Thrive campaign.
Thank you so much for partnering with us in helping survivors live free and discover their God-given purpose.