I met my trafficker in rehab. During those deep, honest conversations in group meetings, he learned everything about me — my insecurities, my needs, my dreams. He used all of it against me. I truly believed he loved me, but now I know he manipulated and brainwashed me. He branded me, claimed me as his property, forced me to use again, and drove me to truck stops and hotels to meet buyers. I was living in hell and desperate to escape.

 

My turning point came in an emergency room. With help from my family, I finally got away — and that’s when my journey led me to the Potter’s Hands Foundation.

 

When I first arrived, I didn’t know what to expect. I was quiet, anxious, withdrawn. Hoodie always up, eyes down, just trying to disappear. I had no self-love or sense of worth. I struggled with complex PTSD — flashbacks, triggers, nightmares, constant jumpiness.

 

At first, I didn’t want to dig into my past. In classes like Boundaries, Anger Management, Conquering Codependency, Shelter from the Storm, and Battlefield of the Mind, I gave only surface answers. But over time, I realized I was surrounded by people who genuinely cared and wanted to see me heal. Once I began trusting them, I started giving honest answers. There was no judgment, only support. The deeper I went, the more pain I felt — but I learned that emotions don’t have to control my life, and I need to feel them to heal.

 

There were times I wanted to quit and run. I remember a specific moment where I was ready to go, just like I had before. But this time, I told the staff what was going on and that I needed help instead of running. They helped me work through it and taught me to respond, not react. I learned grounding and coping skills, and that there’s strength in crying — in letting it out. My favorite tools are logical self-talk, focusing on my senses, and showing compassion to myself.

 

Eventually, I made it through the pain and began to feel free from my past. After that, every class and counseling session became deeper and more real. The more honest I was, the more healing I experienced. I found my voice, my confidence, and my peace. The anxiety faded. The nightmares stopped.

 

Today, I’m loud, proud — maybe even a little obnoxious, but that’s part of my charm. I only wear my hoodie when I’m cold now. I’ve found grace and forgiveness for myself and those who hurt me. I learned that holding onto anger and resentment only hurts me. Forgiveness isn’t for them — it’s for me, so I can move forward and be free.

 

With the help of the Potter’s Hands staff and volunteers, I’ve rediscovered my faith — not just in God, but in Jesus. I used to believe in God but didn’t have a relationship with Him. When I took the time to build that relationship, I found a peace that passes all understanding.

 

The staff here believed in me until I could believe in myself. They had faith in me until I could have faith in myself. They loved me until I could love myself. Now, I have self-respect, self-worth, and self-love.

 

I used to live in the regret of yesterday and the fear of tomorrow, but I’ve learned to live one day at a time. It’s not about perfection — it’s about progress. I don’t regret my past anymore. I’m grateful for it, because it shaped me into who I am today — and I love who I am. I know now that I’m worth it.

 

Soon, I’ll be graduating and moving into my own apartment near my family. I’m beyond thankful for their love and support. Reconnecting with them has been such a gift. I love them to the moon and back.  

 

Next, I want to help other women who’ve been through what I have — maybe as a peer recovery advocate — and I hope my story inspires others to fight for their healing and freedom. I’m so thankful for my time here, for everyone at Potter’s Hands, and for my amazing family.

 

Thank you to Deb, Stephanie, Jami, the residents, staff, volunteers — and my family. I couldn’t have done this without you. And to everyone in the audience tonight — thank you. This fundraiser isn’t just an event. It’s a lifeline. It’s the reason people like me get second chances. Without your support, I wouldn’t be standing here today as a changed woman. Thank you.