When I was referred to EAST I thought it was because my parents were mad at me. But it surprised me. The people I met from EAST really listened to what I wanted and encouraged me. It was hard work, but I tried to make good choices and they really supported me. It was a step-by-step process (two steps forward, one step back), and it took a long time, but I’m living on my own again and I started my own small business. My family got a lot more educated and they’re off my back for the most part. The fact is, I almost lost everything. I thought things were real when they weren’t, and it was all a big secret. I didn’t tell anybody. Now I’ve learned a lot and I see things much more clearly. I feel good about what I’ve done. I made my own choices each step of the way. I’m stronger now because of what I’ve experienced, and I like to share what I’ve learned with other people.
Early Assessment and Support Alliance