Finding Peace
Born and raised in Omaha, Kyrsten remembers growing up in a violent home. Eventually her parents separated. At the age of 17, she severed ties with her parents and moved out of the home to begin life on her own.
Kyrsten would soon become married at the age of 19. They divorced just a year later, and her niece passed away shortly after. This sent her into a spiral of pain and addiction. “I was trying to numb the pain of her being gone, and I just blamed God for taking her away from me.” Amid this pain, Kyrsten remained in a cycle of addiction for the next several years, but eventually found treatment and became sober again for nearly 9 years. During those years she had 3 children, but the underlying pain and animosity toward God remained.
After so many years of sobriety, Kyrsten relapsed and found herself stuck in an abusive relationship. During this relationship she tried 4 different treatment programs, but nothing stopped the cycle of addiction. As verbal and physical abuse intensified, she feared for her children’s safety and even placed them in her sister’s care for a time. Finally, she saw an opportunity to escape the violence and fled to Open Door Mission’s Lydia House along with her 3 children.
Since arriving at the Lydia House, Kyrsten says she’s felt an overwhelming sense of peace. No longer in fear, she has maintained sobriety in the New Life Recovery Program as she works through her unique traumas.
“The program has been life changing for me. Other treatments focus just on your addiction, but the Lydia House has helped me deal with all the other layers beneath that. It has really opened my eyes and my heart to God.”
Kyrsten’s children are also experiencing peace as they are finally in a safe and stable environment, participating in many of the children’s activities provided at Open Door Mission’s Lydia House.
After graduation, Kyrsten hopes to continue giving back to other women and children going through similar experiences at Open Door Mission. “With my past, I think I can really relate to people and help other women and children feel more comfortable getting help. I just want to help people.” Kyrsten thanks you for providing hope for lasting change at Open Door Mission.
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. – John 14:27
