My Story
By
Lourdes des Maria deMaya (Rollins)

     “With honor, I would like to share with you a part of my life that has inspired me to walk in peace and purpose. I transferred here from the Maryland, DC, and Virginia area. I was a west coast sailor and I am proud to say I loved serving my country- eleven years- Navy. I was a soldier who was taught to fight terrorists. I found myself homeless in denial- hurt, broken, confused. I exhausted all my resources in Baltimore,
DC, and the West Virginia VA hospital and burned some bridges too. For the past four years I have felt intensely more hopeless-useless- and defeated. Now I was fighting for my sanity-my life.
     I came to North Carolina through supernatural occurrences. I was in denial that I was a disabled veteran with PTSD- post traumatic stress disorder-tainted, tarnished, a wreck. A soldier fully armed I needed to put down my rifle. I felt a peace come over me when I arrived at the greyhound station on Tunnel Road  only knowing I had no where to live. Within 24 hours of arriving here in Ashville, I checked into the VA hospital. I had a place to live and a part time job. It really blew my mind- God was in control.
     The ABCCM Women’s and Children Shelter is where I would be staying. Walking into the front door I was embraced with love, smiles and an infinite amount of resources. I could take a warm shower with shampoo that smelled beautiful. The staff gave me fresh sheets and a bed with a fluffy pillow. Was this the Hilton Hotel? I received clothes that were casual and professional and sleepwear, socks and undergarments. I got a new toothbrush, perfume, lotion. WOW! I could lay my weary head down. The staff at the shelter met with me. Case workers, Vet representatives, and mentors would follow the days ahead. This was a network of women to love me unconditionally. I found myself with integrity again. I made my appointments and set realistic goals. I stayed focused. I was no longer broken and alone. I was able to say “Good Morning” and reach out to others. I could feel my hurt and pain and accept my feelings and learn coping skills in a safe nurturing environment. I would share my confusion and be vulnerable. Be me and still be encouraged. I was finally away from the hustle and bustle of city life and abuse. Yes, I could be transparent. Within 21 days, I could hold my head up with confidence, faith and value. Now I had hope and the staff gave me back my dreams, my aspirations, with a song in my heart again. Was this the same woman who was suicidal three weeks ago? Yes, I am writing this for you and most of all love for myself and service to others. ABCCM was a place for a soldier to come home too. I salute you.”

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