By Fr. Justin Fulton
There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to communicate or talk. When one loses their voice, one becomes frustrated, angry, and perhaps tends toward helplessness. We see this a lot when a new woman comes to us at St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes. Many women lose their voices when they are victims of domestic abuse. We attempt to help them realize their dignity and strength. And with God’s grace and time, these women get back up on their feet, fight for themselves, become confident, regain their voices, and begin living greatly.
Here is another one of our clients who is now raising her voice and standing on her own two feet as she permanently leaves St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes with her children. It is an honor to have the opportunity to share this strong, brave woman’s voice with you today.
Dear St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes and Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska:
I would like to take this letter to express my gratitude for St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes and Catholic Social Services for all that they have done for me and my children. The Sisters—Sister Carol, Sister Karen, and Sister Bernadette—are very compassionate. They have helped my kids and myself by working closely with us. They have been more than just a good support. They are like family to us.
This year I have encountered so many challenges. One included my 4-year-old finally coming home in August for the very first time since being born due to a host of complex health conditions. Another hurdle I have overcome was being away from my mother while she was dying. She passed away this year to be with our Heavenly Father. And shortly after that I received custody of my younger brother. It has been a tough year but the love poured forth by the sisters at St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes and the staff and volunteers of CSS have brought me through it.
Outside of these obstacles I have been able to strive through them with the compassion and help of both the sisters at St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes and Catholic Social Services. And for that I am expressing my deepest gratitude. We were truly blessed to have had the opportunity to live at St. Gianna’s and have a safe place when I made the final decision to flee from domestic violence.
I am a survivor not a victim.
I will share my story with many.
Thank you so much for everything!!!
Many blessings,
Lydia and Children
Jesus Christ, His charity, and His works are alive at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Thank you for your prayers and financial support of CSS! You help women like Lydia and her children. May God bless us all.
