Alexis – 2014 Graduate

My parents were never married when they had me and separated when I was really young. They both eventually married other people, and I switched between the two families often. We moved around a lot, which added to the inconsistency in my life. When I was six, I suffered the traumatic loss of both my mom and step-dad. I didn’t fully understand what that meant at the time, but somehow I still managed to put up a wall. I began pushing people away, without even noticing. My stepmom adopted me when I was seven, and I considered her my mom but didn’t allow for a close relationship to take place. I honestly didn’t open up to any relationship in fear of getting too attached to anyone who might get taken from me. I became rebellious, sneaking around my parents’ backs and lying all the time. During middle school, I was self-conscious and wanted to do what others wanted me to do so I could feel accepted. Things continued to get worse and worse. When I was a sophomore in high school, I went on a mission trip to Guatemala. Around that time, my parents started to see a change in me. They believed that I was finally on the right track. Unfortunately, I spiraled downward once again a few weeks later. Eventually, my parents found out about all the things I had been doing in secret. I hated myself for those things. I was embarrassed and didn’t want to associate with that part of myself. I wanted to escape the pain, humiliation and consequences of my choices. The next day, I attempted suicide. After this I found myself in a short-term treatment facility. I hated myself even more, believing that I was crazy, stupid and unworthy.

My mom found out about Mercy through a church friend. I decided to apply because I wasn’t getting the help I needed to heal at home, even though I was trying to change. I wanted so badly to learn more about myself and God. When I arrived at Mercy, I was lost. I didn’t know who I was, and even though I had considered myself a Christian all of my life, I didn’t know who God truly was. I was broken and felt hopeless.

During my time at Mercy, I have learned that God really does love me. I have learned what it means to have a true, intimate relationship with Him. I have completely committed my life to Christ and discovered who I am in Christ. I have developed healthy relationships with others— especially my parents! I have learned that God forgives me, and I have forgiven others. I have learned to love, value and respect myself.

After Mercy, I plan to go back to school and later get my degree in teaching. I would also like to grow in the areas of worship leading and mission work. I plan to be on the worship team at my church. Eventually, I want to get married and have a family of my own.

To Mercy donors, saying “thank you” is not enough to express how grateful I am for your generosity. You are THE reason I have had the opportunity to find true freedom and hope. My life has been transformed completely because of the help the Lord provided through Mercy. From the very bottom of my heart, thank you!