Renee Christenson, wife, mother, dermatology physician assistant, and daughter of an abusive alcoholic father, escaped her father at age 17 by marrying an abusive husband. After 18 years of a turbulent marriage and the loss of her 15 year-old son to a car accident, Renee found herself in utter dispair. Here is the inspiring story of how Renee pulled herself out of depression, took charge, and claimed her life.

Charlie Troughton, a high school administrator, husband, and father, shares his three greatest hardships: the divorce of his parents, the loss of his leg in a tractor accident, and the near-loss of his own marriage. Charlie’s story is proof that, with faith and determination, we can survive anything.

Eighteen year-old Ivy Bain shares the details of her tumultuous childhood and offers hope for those who have similar stories. Through self-reflection and determination, Ivy has discovered ways to move past her trauma and live a more meaningful life. If you have a survival story to share, visit our website at http://speakbravely.com and submit an interview request. We also welcome written narratives, videos, and spoken word poetry.

Carolyn Ayres’ childhood was filled with one devastating heartbreak after another. But you would never know it now. Through this interview, we watch, firsthand, as a lost, traumatized little girl grows up, and through an unwavering search, finds her voice, her inner strength, and ultimately – joy. If you have a survival story to share, visit our website at http://speakbravely.com and submit an interview request. We also welcome written narratives, videos, and spoken word poetry.