“I love horror movies but can’t find one that scares me. I grew up with no fear. The worst fear I could experience was abuse. And I already experienced that from the people I Ioved.

I grew up in Texas. Was moved around living with family members. I was in foster care for a bit and became suicidal at a young age. I knew nothing about my mom. Not even what she looked like. Then my younger sister and I were sent to Alabama to live with her. I found out I had other siblings. Mom had her life: there was no place for us. I couldn’t get a break. I was suicidal again.

But one person cared for me–my grandma. She used the money she got from the government to buy food for my little sister and me. Anytime I was about to commit suicide, I thought about Grandma. She wouldn’t want me to do this.

I got professional help and moved in with my older brother last year. The suicidal thoughts are gone. He wants me to have a better life. Doesn’t treat me like I’m a toy to be tossed around.

Education is important to me. I stayed in school during all I went through. I’m graduating from high school in May. Thank the Lord. I’ll go to community college for two years, then to Mississippi State to finish my degree.

I don’t have transportation, so I walk to work and school. My brother gives me a ride when the weather’s bad. I’m saving money and getting my own apartment this fall. I was down low, but look where I am now. I’m so grateful for my brother and grandmother–I’m still here because of them. My grandma loves having red hair, so I dyed mine to match hers. She’s my inspiration. I don’t want children, but if I have a daughter, I’ll name her after my grandma.

I don’t pity myself or feel bad for anything that I went through. How can I move forward if I keep looking at the past? I can’t choose my family, but I can choose the people I will be around the rest of my life. I’m even excited about what happens next.”

Hazel