Meet Christian

What would you do if everything in your life changed in an instant? How do you heal when a crime against you caused so much trauma it makes you contemplate your purpose? Christian, a new resident of Freedom house, had to face these questions when she was only 26. She went from having a stable job as a flight attendant and an active social life to total isolation. She’s not a pessimist though – despite everything she’s gone through. Christian is kind, compassionate and strong, fighting each day to better herself.

Since the trauma she has been diagnosed with social anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causing her to live in fear and isolation. Luckily, she had help in the form of a supportive family and a therapist. However, at the time of the incident it was hard for her family to understand how she felt and what she needed. “My sister and I were always close, but it was hard for her to hear about what happened to me. She finally said ‘I don’t know how to help you’ and that was really eye-opening for me” Christian states, “A lot of people don’t know how to help someone in my situation. My advice is to give them time and make sure they know you’re there to support them. Setting boundaries allowed my sister and I to heal.”

Christian’s relationship with her faith has grown stronger since the trauma. At first, her relationship with God struggled. It was hard for her to understand why and how this happened to her. She now knows the love of God is unconditional and is there even when we think otherwise, “True Light has provided me a safe place to pray and be myself – which is amazing”. Christian has been slowly healing herself and her relationship with her faith. Each weekend she goes to church and is reminded of the love that surrounds her and the community.

True Light has been invaluable to Christian. While living in Freedom House, she has volunteered at Emancipation Station and the clothing closet to help others in the Kansas City area. She is currently enrolled in a community college and wants to pursue a social work degree. Christian proves even those battling the darkest circumstances can still follow their dreams and help others. She is an inspiration to us all.

Christian’s story is far from over. This new chapter of her life is exciting and presents so many opportunities.

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