Following is Mavis’ story (not her real name), one of courage and determination in the face of overwhelming obstacles and challenges.
You can hear Mavis tell her story on Family Radio CHRI 99.1 FM, each week day just after station identification at 8 am and 5 pm.
Parts of her story are messy, and always real, as is the wonderful lady who will find a special place in your heart.
OIM’s Christmas story this year features Mavis, one of the youth in our program, who has overcome many challenges to become a strong resilient person. Here is part two:
When my parents split up, the court ordered shared, weekly custody.
At my fathers, I had to eat whatever he made, or I went hungry. My mother cooked things I liked. She was on social assistance.
Staying at my fathers was hard: I shared a room with my stepsister and there were ants everywhere. You had to look at the floor before you stepped anywhere. The ants crawled on me at night. I had to keep my blankets completely tucked in and if I didn’t, I would feel them crawling on my legs and my body. It was terrible. I didn’t sleep.
After two years of shared custody, I was able to stay with my mom.
Childhood trauma leaves a lasting impression on a young life. Some carry the pain forever.
These are those we embrace at OIM – people in need of care, a friend, and a safe place to belong.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Mavis’ story, coming soon.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support that allow us to continue to reach out to young people just like Mavis.
Merry Christmas!
~Ken – Executive Director
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