With three young children from different fathers, Crystal felt overwhelmed. She disciplined them as her mother had — with a paddle — until she realized she needed people who would lift her up.
A family member saw bruises and called the police. Two years later, Crystal and her husband pled guilty to two felony counts of child abuse or neglect. They each received a seven-year sentence, but Crystal’s five years of SIS probation meant a chance for a clean record.
The state placed her children with a family friend. At a church’s suggestion, Crystal moved into The Embassy, a home for women rebuilding their lives. Over nine months, she learned healthier coping skills, enrolled in community college, and formed friendships that brought stability.
Today, she and her husband share a strong Christian marriage, are buying their first home, and her children are thriving.
“When my kids were taken away, I knew my world was over,” Crystal says. “But look at us now!”
She adds, “I knew I was wrong, but I didn’t know how to be an effective parent.” Now, Crystal owns her mistakes, embraces what she’s learned, and looks ahead with hope.
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