Rachel – 2011 Graduate

Before Mercy, I was hopeless and didn’t even want to live. The pain of my past led me down a dark path of eating disorders, self-harm, depression and anxiety. Every day was filled with fear and pain. I felt like nobody cared about me and that even God had left me and was mad at me for the choices I made. I was mad at Him for allowing things to happen the way they did. I didn’t have much desire to live, but a small part of me thought there might be a better way of life. One of my parents’ friends told us about Mercy. I looked on the website, thought it looked like a nice place, and decided to apply.

While at Mercy, God has totally transformed every aspect of my life. I know that He loves me for who I am and I do not have to hide from Him. He has forgiven me for what I did to myself and I don’t have to be ashamed. My value comes from God alone, and not from my looks, weight or what others say. I am free from the depression, anxiety, eating disorders and cutting that once tried to rob me of my life. God is SO good. He has restored my joy and my life has definitely been transformed!

While at Mercy I have been able to dream more about my future, which is so exciting to me! After I finish high school, I am going to college. I definitely feel like God is leading me to the mission field. I really want to help others and show them God’s love. Thank you Mercy SO much for helping me fall back in love with Jesus! I am so glad to have my life back!