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Cassandra is a resident of the Glory to Glory Independent Living Program in Raleigh. Cassandra has had a history of severe drug abuse. During her stay at Dorothea Dix Hospital in Raleigh, she was diagnosed with SED Schizoid Effective Disorder and HIV. Upon learning about her HIV status, she was completely devastated. She knows that she contracted HIV through her drug use. Prior to her release from Dorothea Dix Hospital, her social worker informed her of a program that would help her confront all three of her issues and help her pull her life back together. That is when she met Angela Ferrell of Glory to Glory House of Refuge. When Cassandra first went to Glory to Glory in April 2000 she was barely functional. She was on a lot of medication that made getting through the day a nightmare. Angela and the other staff members had to teach Cassandra how to take care of herself. Slowly as time went on, her life gradually came back into focus. Angela made sure that she received the help necessary to aid her recovery: medically (medical doctors), mentally (psychiatrist, therapists), spiritually (serenity meetings, individual prayers, group prayers, going to the church of her choice), and individual counseling. Whenever Cassandra felt suicidal due to the Schizoid Effective Disorder, Angela and the staff made sure that she received the hospitalization necessary. It took a whole year for her to return back to normal. Neither Angela nor the staff ever gave up on her. With their love and support her life is better than it has been in years. At first, she volunteered at a local library and attended advanced Computer Training School. Now, she volunteers at the Glory to Glory House of Refuge as an Office Aide. Glory to Glory has helped her rebuild her relationship with her family, specifically her parents and children. She is proud to say that everything is TERRIFIC! She stays in constant contact with her parents and children. With the love and support of family and friends, she visits as often as she can. Glory to Glory provided her with a safe and structured environment necessary in aiding her recovering. She graduated from the structured program in June 2002. She now resides in their independent Living Program. Through the grace of God and his loving mercy, Angela Ferrell and the Glory to Glory House of Refuge saved her life physically as well as spiritually.
Wake County Commission for Women |
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