When I was in 8th grade, my family split up and I moved in with my mom. I was very depressed and believed my family didn’t really want me. My senior year of high school, I dropped out and moved in with my boyfriend. I got pregnant and decided to give my baby boy up for adoption, but I was devastated. My relationships with my family continued to be strained and I moved around a lot. I even lived in a homeless shelter at one point. My father believed I was mentally incompetent and wanted me to sign away all of my rights but then my mother stepped in and told me about Mercy. She helped me apply and I’m so glad I did!

While at Mercy, God has shown me that I am His daughter. I have learned that it is okay to grieve about giving up my son and that I am a new creation in Christ. God has been faithful to restore many of my relationships with my family.

After graduation I plan to go to cosmetology school and one day I hope to fulfill my dream of owning a salon. I am so happy to have my life back!