“Hi! My name is Jaxon, and I’m 15.”
“I came to Raphael House with my mom (her name is Helena) when I was 12. Things were really bad at home with my stepdad – he was always yelling or pushing or slapping us around. One day mom said we were leaving, then we got in the car and drove for hours. I still miss my friends, but I’m glad we left. I don’t think we’d be okay right now if we stayed.
We moved into the shelter the day before my 12th birthday. Me and mom were pretty scared, but we tried not to show it. I remember feeling kind of bummed about not having a party or anything, but then the people at Raphael House gave me presents, which was cool. And there was always someone around to talk to. I liked that a lot.
We have our own apartment now. We joke about being the ‘Dream Team’ because we always stick together. Even on bad days, I’m glad it’s just us. Someone from Raphael House brought us groceries last week, and they got me a laptop for school. My mom does online groups on there, too. I’m glad she has some help and people to talk to.
I feel different than I did before. Not worried or mad as much. I started taking piano lessons again, and I might go to college to be a musician. Or maybe to do a job where I can help kids who have been through stuff like me.
I’m not sure yet, but I know me and mom will figure it out. We’re going to be okay now.”
Note: We’ve updated identifying details to protect the confidentiality of this family.
We hope that Jaxon’s story shows some of the ways that youth survivors are also impacted by domestic violence. At Raphael House, we care about the unique needs of kids and teens!
