The girl behind it all

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I grew up in a loving home, a "momma’s girl" who loved being outside with my family. Everything changed when my mom passed away in 2018. Being nine years old without a mom was incredibly hard, but the bond I shared with my little sister helped me through the darkest days.

By age 12, I began to struggle with intense emotions like sadness, anger, and impulsivity. For several years, I walked a very difficult road involving mental health crises, various treatments, and long periods away from home consisting of impatient & residential mental health treatment stays.  It was an exhausting cycle, and for a long time, it felt like there was no way out.

Eventually, I made the life changing decision to move across the country to Alaska. This fresh start, combined with the treatment I received, helped my recovery change my life. It took years of struggling to realize that I wanted a different life for myself, one that wasn't defined by hospital stays or old habits.

I share this because I want you to know you are not alone. Someone special once told me that when days are hard, your mind makes positive things feel impossible, making old habits seem easier. But those better days are not as far away as they feel.

Recovery is possible, but you have to want it for yourself. If you are stuck in a crisis, please remember that it is temporary. You are here for a reason, and there is always a light at the end of the tunnel