Rendi’s Life Transformation
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries is a place that’s not just helping me keep my family together but transforming our future. These past six months have been incredible – watching the pieces of my life fall into place. I remember a time years ago when things were going well. I had love, dreams, ambitions, and a job full of possibilities. Then came a hip injury that changed everything. Like many others caught in the same situation, I found myself trapped in addiction to pain medication. When my prescription ended, I felt desperate and on a dark path.
The financial burden of maintaining my addiction eventually pushed me toward meth, and that’s when life’s challenges truly intensified. I was already a mother, and addiction is not good for a family, so the Department of Social Services (DSS) became a significant part of my story. They wanted to see me healthy, but they felt like they needed to take my son from me until I could stabilize my life. It broke my heart. Despite my best efforts to cooperate with DSS – attending every class, participating in meetings, and following the case plan diligently – I felt stuck. After maintaining sobriety for an entire year, a shopping trip with a friend who shoplifted, and got us both arrested. I went from the top of my progress ladder to what felt like the ground floor once again.
Meanwhile, my relationship with my fiancé was turbulent. Our arguing and spitefulness created an environment that wasn’t ideal for raising children. At this time our second son had come, and heated arguments and unkind words do not need to fill a home where boys are growing up.
That’s when my social worker began persistently recommending Abba’s House. She saw the potential for transformation that this place offered. Although leaving my fiancé felt unbearable, it became the most courageous decision I’ve ever made.
Initially, reuniting with my children was my sole focus, but Abba’s House has given me so much more. These seven months have transformed me and my outlook on life – I’m now pursuing my dream of becoming a veterinary technician, having already completed my first class! Even better, I’ve secured approval for stable, supportive housing.
My relationship with God has blossomed through journaling and prayer. His guidance has brightened my path, and I’m learning to put faith in God at the center of everything I do. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of wisdom. Abba’s House has taught me that leaning on the right people creates a foundation for growth and healing.
Recently, I found myself recommending Abba’s House to a friend, knowing in my heart that this place could offer her the same life-changing support it’s given me.
Looking back, I’m filled with gratitude. Without Abba’s House, I might still be wrestling with depression and fighting to keep my children. Instead, I’m standing stronger, more hopeful, a
nd ready to embrace the beautiful future ahead. Abba’s House hasn’t just helped me change my life – it’s helped me rediscover who I was always meant to be.
