I grew up as an only child in the Organization of Jehovah's Witnesses. I dedicated my life through baptism at the age of 16 with very little understanding of what that dedication meant and what it would lead to.

 

When I left the Jehovah's Witnesses at the age of 24, I was shunned, treated like a criminal and didn't know where to fit in. "The world" was a place I was taught to hate and in "The Truth", I only saw hypocrisy, harmful policies, conditional love.

 

Years after being disfellowshipped, I lived with the pain everyday of being shunned by loved ones and decided to do something I never dared to do before. I researched everything I could find online about the Watchtower Organization and my eyes were opened beyond what I ever expected. I've made many mistakes in my journey, but leaving the Watchtower Organization was not one of them. It's one I will never regret.

 

I wrote Paradise Bound (only BASED on some of my experiences) to take you into a day in the life of what it was like to grow up in the confines of the Organization. I am hoping to entertain, educate and support anyone that is trying to leave any abusive cult. Keep in mind that Paradise Bound is NOT an autobiography.

 

I currently live near Pittsburgh, PA and work in healthcare. My passion is writing and spending time with my family, including my amazingly supportive husband, three children, three step-children, a daughter and son-in-law who both serve in the USAF...and the cutest grandson in the world.  

 

Maintaining a positive attitude has helped me to overcome many obstacles and I believe others can do the same if they just accept one another for who they are. I respect people for how they treat others and not for what they believe or don't believe. I do not, however, tolerate abuse of any kind. When a religious belief is damaging to children, people and families, I draw the line and I advocate myself against it.

 

My ultimate goal is to let survivors know that they are not alone and that there are many support groups &resources available for anyone who would like to overcome the pain associated with shunning, spiritual and sexual abuse. I encourage any Jehovah's Witness to free their minds and open their hearts to love.