Sara – 2014 Graduate

I grew up in a physically and verbally abusive home. When I was eight years old, a neighbor sexually abused me and began selling me to other men who also sexually abused me. This went on for three years. After this and other abuse, I became a very angry girl. I started aiming the anger inward and began to self-harm. When I was 16, I attempted suicide twice and was also diagnosed with anorexia. By the time I was in college, I had developed full-blown bulimia and was addicted to diet pills and laxatives. I also endured more sexual abuse, this time from a boyfriend.

I heard about Mercy from a friend who graduated from the program. She helped me fill out the application. I saw the freedom in her life, and I knew I was at the end of my rope. When I arrived at Mercy, I was a really angry and defiant girl who didn’t trust anyone.

I remember a certain point where my perspective started to turn around while I was at Mercy. I was curled up on the floor crying, and a staff member came up to me and began talking to me. She asked me to show her my face. When I finally did, she told me that she saw me and that she accepted me. That meant a lot to me!

I also remember looking in the mirror and seeing what God saw for the first time—a beautiful woman! At Mercy, God has shown me that I am a beautiful, cherished, and loved child of His. He has broken down the walls of shame and guilt, and freed me from my anger, bitterness, and resentment. God has restored my health, taught me to trust, and most importantly, restored my relationship with my family who are now all following the Lord!

After graduation, I plan to go home and finish my last year of college. I will be graduating with my bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in theology. I also plan on getting a job and starting a small group at my church for girls.

Nancy Alcorn and all the donors have literally had a part in saving and changing my life. Without their support, I would probably be dead right now. They made it possible for me to see what God saw in me. I am finally excited and hopeful about my future! I have been blessed beyond words while I have been here! The staff, counselors, teachings, speakers, etc. have been such a blessing in my life. I know I will be part of Mercy down the road in any way that I can.