Rebecca – 2017 Graduate

When I was fourteen, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I couldn’t deal with my emotions, so I turned to drugs, bad company, and self-harm. I started with marijuana and cigarettes but then escalated my use to meth and heroin. I started dealing marijuana at age fifteen and dealing meth and heroin shortly after. I was always hanging out with guys that were controlling and possessive. After high school, I ended up pregnant with my son but had no support in raising the baby and wanted him to have a better life with a mom and a dad. I found an adoption agency and the perfect family to raise my son while also keeping it an open adoption. While pregnant with my son, I met my husband. He and I used drugs together and sold together, too. After we were engaged he started to physically, sexually, and mentally abuse me. I finally had enough and called the police on him. I decided that it was time for a change and entered into several different rehab programs that never helped. I was able to cope with my trauma a little better but still heavily used drugs between programs.

I learned about Mercy Multiplied while at a treatment facility. I began the application process, only to quit when I found out that there was no smoking allowed. A few months later, I changed my mind and began the application process again. I came to Mercy on a birthday party night and was greeted with many friendly girls who accepted me right away. Within a week of being at Mercy, I was already attending a conference and feeling like part of the house.

A turning point for me during my Mercy journey was when I finally gave up everything and surrendered it all to God. I have fully changed my life for the better to be the person God has made me to be.

In the past, I struggled with physical touch. But, when I attended a conference during my time at Mercy, I was overcome by the Holy Spirit and was filled with more joy that I have ever had in my entire life. This negative trigger of touch was completely gone. I have learned to trust God with all my problems and situations I’ll encounter.

After Mercy, I plan to return home and work at my church. I plan to go to school for domestic abuse and substance abuse counseling.

Mercy donors, thank you for everything you have done for me. I am truly blessed to have been given this life-changing opportunity. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here today. Thank you!!!