I still remember the day when Jordan (OIM's Youth Program Coordinator) and I had the privilege of going to visit one of the youth, whom I will call Kate, and her newborn baby at the hospital. It was such a beautiful moment and I was so proud of her. There was so much joy on her face as she held her sweet baby.
I enjoyed seeing all the ways that God was blessing her through her journey of motherhood. Don’t get me wrong. Kate faced some very difficult challenges that I can’t imagine going through while also learning to be a new mom, but she was resilient through the whole year. Jordan and I supported her as much as we could. We were there for her when she needed someone to cry to and let out her emotions, but she was so strong through it all.
I just recently came back to work after being off on maternity leave and got to catch up with Kate since being back. After having a baby of my own, I’m even more in awe of the strength that Kate has in her. She still faces many mountains, but she still shows up with a smile on her face when she comes to the art group. Her daughter is growing up so fast. Kate’s smile is so big every time she shows me pictures and videos of her daughter. Kate truly loves her daughter so much, and that is the best and most important thing she can offer her daughter. I will always be in awe of Kate’s resilience and every youth that walks through our doors. It is truly incredible.
~ Marissa, Youth Assistant
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