In high school, I had some unhealthy relationships. One boyfriend left me with soft tissue damage and two bruised ribs. That, coupled with the continued abuse from my stepfather, left me feeling dirty, lonely and betrayed.

I found help in the form of my high school counselor. She helped me understand that I had made some bad decisions in my life, but that the abuse and trauma I’d gone through wasn’t my fault. She taught me self-worth and how to avoid unhealthy relationships. Confiding in others is what helped me turn my life around. After I confided in my school counselor, I found I could also talk to my aunt and my father. I learned to love and protect myself first, above any other person.

Now I am married to an incredible, supportive husband and I have a beautiful baby girl! I make sure to look for signs of unhealthy relationships from my own previous experiences. I want to protect myself and the people I love from the difficulties I had growing up. I am strong, happy and have healthy boundaries with my friends and family. I love life!"