Annabel – 2013 Graduate

I was born into a very dysfunctional family. I was sexually abused by a family member and by others as well. My home life was negative and abusive. At 12 years old I began a sexual addiction, which led to battles of self-harm and self-hate. In school I was popular… I was even homecoming queen in high school. I became promiscuous and got into the party scene with drugs and alcohol. Throughout this time, I battled constant thoughts of suicide and eventually attempted to take my life.

I realized I needed serious help, so I reached out to my youth pastor. She helped research my options and found out about Mercy through a friend. Because the program was free and Christ-centered, I decided to apply. Somehow I knew that with God I could change.

When I first came to Mercy, I would have angry outbursts all the time. But during my time here, God has taught me how to forgive and how to accept His love. He has also taught me how to love myself, which was the hardest part. God is my daddy and He always will be. I am restored and made clean—I am pure.

After I graduate, I plan on moving back to my home state. I am looking forward to getting involved with a high school ministry for teenagers with special needs. I want to share God’s word and my testimony with teen girls and pull them out of the depths of hell. I also hope to get married and adopt children.

I wouldn’t be alive today if it wasn’t for Mercy. I am so grateful to Nancy and the Mercy donors for being obedient to God’s call and giving out of the goodness of their hearts.