My Daughter Survived

My daughter, whom I adopted two years ago, came to me with some pre-existing conditions due to the violence and hunger she experienced with her biological father and step-mother.  She was victim to his and her anger and frustrations and is lucky to be alive.  She also experienced hunger due to neglect. 

Before entering foster care, she walked on eggshells, tried to please everyone, ate out of garbage cans at school, hid her injuries, held in her tears, and rarely attended school. She lived in and out of foster care, starting at the age of 2 years.

Since coming to live with me, at the age of 10 years, she has regularly attended therapy to help her cope with her PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), anxiety, and depression.  She is also taking an anti-anxiety medication to help her cope.  She attends school regularly, eats like a teenager (she is 13 years now), is a drama queen, cries often, shows age and situation appropriate emotions, and has a lot of friends. 

When she first moved in, I had to regularly show her there was food in the cupboard and take her grocery shopping to demonstrate that there was plenty of food.  She hid her emotions and insecurities by being overly happy and helpful.  She lacked problem-solving skills and emotional skills. 

She is becoming a very well adjusted young woman who can problem-solve, show emotions without fear of repercussions, has dreams, and strives to fulfill her dreams and aspirations.