Estephanie M. / Build your future, fix your spending habits.

“They think therapy would fix both parties but the memory is still there.”

Estephanie spent 3 years in the system. Growing up in the system she faced depression. Having to go to court appointments and visits with her mom while a social worker was there. Her mothers love never felt real, it felt more like an obligation, especially when there was someone there monitoring the visit. It was also hard to leave home and miss her mother or who she was before.   

While in care, what brought me comfort was I never had a cell phone before so having one was super great. I spent a lot of time in church and with family.”

Estephanie is proud of her emotional strength. She was always strengthened and never got into any trouble. Her advice for those experiencing foster care like herself is: 

“I would advice to always try your best, and do it for yourself. Build your future and fix your spending habits.” 

Estephanie says the most difficult part about being placed in foster care was Having to adapt to a new life. It feels very lonely. When friends used to ask her about her parents, she needed support. She felt as if she was just pushed into the real world. During this time of foster care. She focused all of her feelings and projected them at school. She always passed her classes. Sometimes she didn’t even know how she did it. She always focused in school and it was sort of a distraction for me. In 5 years she hope to have a stable career and to be financially stable.