My life before Mercy consisted of fear and mental health battles. From 2014 to 2023, I experienced a series of mental health episodes that led to various hospitalizations. As a teenager, I battled through depression and bitterness. I had not processed trauma from many painful situations, and feelings of emptiness and worthlessness grew inside of me. Those roots grew deeper through different life circumstances. 

 I thought that diving deep into my academic career at a university would fulfill me, but it didn’t. After college, I used Latin dancing at clubs and venues (like salsa nights and bachata nights) to escape the emptiness I felt. I was determined to be the best dancer, but the attention I sought and received was never enough. Then, experiencing heartbreak led me to start going to church again. I was baptized in 2020, and then could not understand how, as a follower of Jesus, I ended up in the hospital from emotional distress. I knew there was something better, but could not find affordable, faith-based treatment.  

In 2024, I heard about Mercy from a pastor who has been a mother figure to me in the faith. I applied and was accepted! At Mercy, I was challenged to overcome the fear of cooking meals. I eventually became one of the leaders for preparing dinner. This was one of my many victories. I also trained and completed my first 5k at Mercy’s event Walk for Freedom: Pray with Purpose event. Working through the Keys to Freedom curriculum helped me learn how to forgive on a deeper level. I also learned how to confidently use my authority in Christ and was able to identify lies that were feeding my fear and replace them with God’s promises. I declared God’s promises out loud every day, knowing that Jesus has given me that authority.  

After Mercy, I plan to continue to use the principles of freedom in my life. With God’s strength, I hope to bring Keys to Freedom to my church and help other women declare God’s promises over their lives. I am going to partner with God to work for His Kingdom, knowing that His plans are greater than what I could think of. I am so grateful for my time at Mercy and want to become a monthly donor. 

Thank you for your donations! Because of your contributions, women in Mercy’s Residential Program receive biblically centered care. As a person who has been to many treatment facilities, nothing compares to Mercy! Mercy is truly who they say they are!