Survivor Story: Alexis

I was hurt, ashamed, burdened, embarrassed, and broken but now I am full of love, happiness, and joy. I had change the mindset, rhythms, and patterns that made me feel less than worthy. My previous mindset and relationships that I was tangled up in restricted me from being able to grow. But now I have chosen to only be involved in what enables me to grow, not what restricts me. I didn't enjoy that chapter of my life, but through that struggle, it taught me some things about myself that I never would have known unless I went through it. Now I have a vision for who I am and what I want moving forward.

I was ashamed and embarrassed of my past but as time went on at the WellHouse, I thought to myself, what would Jesus say if I asked him; What does he think about what I went through? Jesus said, “I still think you are fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14), “I think no weapon formed against you will prosper” (Isaiah 54:17), and “I think I’ll get on a cross for what you got tangled up in, and I can provide you with resurrection & restoration.” As life went on things only got worse for me. Now I see God wasn't escalating my problems, he was just getting me to the feet of Jesus. I am glad I got tangled up. I am glad I got through alive! I thank God for my rebirth because I will never be the woman who is caught in those acts again.

After being incarcerated for 28 months, I was released on March 3, 2021 and I arrived at the WellHouse on March 5, 2021. The WellHouse taught me a lot about myself, taught me self love, and how to love others. I didn't understand how so many people could love me and barely even knew me, but as time went on at The WellHouse I realized it was the love they had for Jesus that connected us so strongly. I was provided with a therapist immediately, who eventually helped me get to the root of my problems which was all the childhood trauma of abuse and sexual abuse that led me to the way of life that I was living and carrying around with me my whole life. The WellHose also provided me with clothes, shoes, healthcare, doctor visits, dental care, medication, social security card, birth certificate, and a driver's license. I also participated in Bible studies, a church home, boundary classes, group therapy, narcotics anonymous, alcoholics anonymous , exercise classes, and the development of healthy relationships.

Nine months after being at The WellHouse, I started my first job at a fast food restaurant. During that time The WellHouse staff provided me transportation daily as needed. A month later The WellHouse donated a 2007 Lexus RX350 to me, which was such a blessing! The WellHouse never ceases to amaze me!

I graduated from The WellHouse in April 2022. Now I live in the Next Steps to Independence phase where I live in my own fully furnished two-bedroom apartment. Fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a washing machine and dryer, all for only $225 a month! Once again, The WellHouse never ceases to amaze me! Nowhere in the world can you live in luxury like this for that price. Not to mention, once I move out on my own, I will get all my money back that I've paid in rent every month. Basically everything I gave to the WellHouse goes in a savings account for me and will set me up as I embark on my next chapter. Thank you to The WellHouse, I couldn't imagine recovery without you all and most importantly God!