From Darkness to Hope

When people ask Jess where she grew up, she tells them Daytona Beach, Florida. But her life story isn’t your typical beach town tale. It’s a journey from darkness to hope, a story of resilience, and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

This is Jess’s story of resilience – four times homeless by 25 years old…

Here’s how it all began.

A Tragic Beginning

“In 2002, my mother passed away from breast cancer at the young age of 37. I was just four years old at the time, and though my memories of her are faint, I’ve been told countless stories about what an incredible woman and mother she was. Losing her was the first heartbreak of my life, setting off a series of events that would shape my future.

My father, struggling to cope with the loss of my mother, sought solace in unhealthy ways. He turned to alcohol and drugs to self-medicate. I witnessed firsthand the destructive power of grief when not properly addressed.

A Life of Turmoil

My father’s attempts to numb the pain of losing my mother led to a cycle of abuse that caused physical, mental, and emotional suffering. Despite his efforts to care for me, our life was fraught with difficulties. We often went without basic necessities like food and air conditioning in the scorching Florida summers. 

School wasn’t easy either, I was bullied for my weight, and once shaved my head due to lice. I would pretend to be sick to avoid going at all.

I desperately pleaded with my father to quit his harmful habits. His chain smoking, in particular, was a cause of concern, leading to severe health issues. I’ll never forget the day he was coughing so much he couldn’t get out of bed. I was 12 years old. I dialed 9-1-1 and helped him get dressed. The ambulance arrived 10 minutes later. A ride that would change my life again. 

In the critical moments that followed, I stepped up to care for my father as he lay on life support in the hospital, fighting for his life. Family rallied around us, but the doctors presented the agonizing reality that my dad probably would not recover, and asked us that one question –

“Do you want to end life support?”

My family chose to give my father another chance, but I knew the time was almost here. “It’s ok, I understand if you want to go be with mom. It’s ok.” I whispered to him in the hospital. Soon after, he was gone. I was orphaned. 

My grandmother and I packed up my childhood home. I boarded a plane to Delaware to live with my aunt and uncle, who I barely knew. This transition came with its own set of challenges, as I struggled to find my place in this strangers’ world. 

My struggles with past trauma and depression continued, and new obstacles presented themselves at my new school and family unit. These led me down a dark path of self-harm through cutting, substance abuse, and battle with my mental health. It was too much for my new family.

At 19, on Christmas Day in 2016, I was kicked out of my aunt and uncle’s home. I sought refuge with a friend, who let me sleep on her couch until I could figure out what to do.

This was rock bottom, or so I thought.

Love and Heartbreak

I began a new chapter, moving to Upstate New York with my brother and sister-in-law. I met a woman who became a significant influence in my life. Our relationship quickly turned to engagement, made more challenging by my untreated mental health.

I decided to get help — but it was too late for my relationship.

While I was getting care, she moved on. When I was released from the hospital, I found out my grandmother had passed away – just days before – on the anniversary of my father’s death. I was devastated.

When I arrived at Shelters of Saratoga, I had nothing. I was starting from ground zero. When I arrived at the emergency shelter, it was nothing like what I expected. I found myself in a supportive environment, surrounded by people who cared about my well-being. With the help of my roommate, case workers, and staff at Shelters of Saratoga, I began to rebuild my life, one step at a time.

SOS helped me secure a Housing Choice Voucher and apply for Social Security. I’ve learned how to better manage my emotional health, and I’ve been sober for nearly a year!  

A Journey from Darkness to Hope

Jess’s journey is a testament of resilience. She’s faced unimaginable challenges, but also found the strength to overcome them. She reminds us all that it’s never too late to change the course of your life, seek help, and work towards a brighter future. 

Jess’s story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there’s always a glimmer of hope waiting to shine through. 

You can make a difference for someone like Jess, who is facing their most challenging times. 

Make a gift today to be the light of hope in someone’s darkness!