My Story,
I was raised in rural Coventry, Connecticut, by a middle-class, traditional, conservative Christian family. I was their firstborn child. I have a younger brother. He’s the good one.
My parents were verbally abusive, manipulative, and occasionally violent. But you would never know, because we appeared as a “normal” family.
When I was five, I knew I was different, but I had no resources or understanding of what that meant. Years later, at twenty-nine, I was diagnosed with AuADHD. The trauma from my childhood home led to CPTSD, which still affects my daily life.
I was sexually assaulted by my boyfriend at age fifteen. This event reached the vice principal, who asked if I wanted to press charges. I was too scared and said no. Today I found out he has a daughter.
Shortly after my assault, I met my wife (now ex). I was sixteen, and we were together for ten years. The pandemic forced me to unpack my trauma bond, leading us to separate. We each met someone new and never spoke again. I still hope she is doing well.
At twenty-six, I fell in love with a man who changed my life’s direction. His kids captured my heart, and I began to paint again, feeling a sense of family and wholeness. But my partner’s own demons caught up with him; he relapsed and overdosed in May 2023.
After his passing, I found myself living with my father again in my childhood bedroom. My parents had divorced years ago, and my brother was stationed out of state. I felt like a failure.
During this time, I painted almost every day to escape my life. Art and my partner's children were my anchor, even when I often thought of not existing.
In 2025, I was diagnosed with EDS, a connective tissue disorder. Suddenly, my ten years as a massage therapist dissolved. I faced a choice: care for others or care for myself. I chose myself.
Now, at thirty, I am choosing to build my life through art and helping others heal with creativity—a method that helped me survive. I share my story briefly so those who meet me understand my passion and drive.
My early life shaped who I am today. I cannot change it. But I can grow, heal, and move forward with purpose.