We’re here to talk about a remarkable story about our student, Heather. She’s overcome challenges since she was born. Heather’s mother fought addiction before she was born and eventually, she was taken from her mother at 18 months old by Child Protective Services. Around that time, it was discovered that Heather had little to no hearing and ended up needing additional services, which her grandmother helped her get additional assistance with the Maryland School of the Deaf. At the age of 12, she was no longer welcomed at her grandmother’s house and was placed in the foster system.
Over 4-5 years, she remained in the foster system and bounced between 13-14 different schools. At the age of 17, she tried returning to her grandmother for a place to live and her grandmother turned her away after telling her she “wasn’t good enough.”
As time went on, her grandmother passed away and Heather’s mother returned to her life. Eventually, addiction took over again, and Heather lost the relationship with her mother she’d hoped for. In November of 2023, Heather’s mother was in a car accident, and the medical bills took over. Then in April of 2024, Heather needed surgery, then ended up living with her stepmother during recovery. Once she was recovered from surgery, her stepmother kicked her out, and she lived on a bench in Walkersville, MD.
Eventually, Heather found a partner and they had a tent in the area they could stay in. However, their relationship did not last long, as her partner attempted to attack her with a weapon. Heather then sought for emergency services and resources, and she stumbled upon SHIP of Frederick County.
“A little bit of support to get back on my feet is what I needed,” said Heather, “I’ve never been so happy.”
Heather now maintains secure housing, continues in education, and has a space in her living area for her to embrace her love for gardening.
We’re incredibly proud of Heather, and the many obstacles she’s overcome since birth. Thank you for taking a moment to listen to her story. 🤟