Veronica's Story

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." — Philippians 4:13. If I had given up, I might not have made it this far; maybe I wouldn't even exist anymore.

My name is Veronica, and I come from a family of three children. At the age of six, my mother chose to abandon me. I don't know the exact reason why she left, but she took my older brother with her, and I stayed with my younger brother and father. After she left, my dad turned to alcohol. He spent every penny on it, leaving us with nothing.

It was very difficult for me, because all the household responsibilities fell on my shoulders. I had to take care of him, do the cleaning, and cook. At eight years old I didn't go to school much, and if I went out and played with other children, my father would beat me because I wasn't at home doing the cleaning or cooking for him. He would wake up at night and demand food from me. Because of this, sometimes I wouldn't eat so that he could eat — because if I didn't give him food, he would beat me until I would bleed. My younger brother would always pull him from behind, begging and crying, "Don't beat her, Daddy. Don't beat her." But he would still continue to beat me.

For a long time, it was very painful for me to watch other children playing in the park with their families, and I would often start crying in the streets while watching them hug or hold hands — because I wanted to feel what it's like to have someone who loves you, who takes care of you, or what it feels like when a mother buys you a dress. Those feelings overwhelmed me, and I even tried to end my own life many times. But I'm thankful that I am here now and I have another day.

When I finished high school, I dreamed of continuing my studies, but there was no way. I desperately searched for help, and God answered my prayers through the Orphan's Hands. Now I want to say a heartfelt thank you for everything you do to give us a second chance at life.

My encouragement to all of you is to never give up, no matter what life throws at you. Keep trying, because you'll make it in the end. And don't forget to trust in God, because He blesses us abundantly.