Melissa was considered by experts, at the age of three, to be Emotionally Impaired and Learning Disabled. She could barely write her name when she entered the 2^nd grade and was in special education class all day long.

Due to an emotional challenge in her life (and being sexually abused by her real father), her impairment ruled her every move. Insecurities and fear kept her from speaking and she would pick her forehead until it bled. She had no friends and hated to be away from home.  

However, with love, prayer, and the healing power of God, Melissa has reached a place where teachers and scholars said she wouldn’t. By 9th grade she was in regular classes for more than 50% of the day. By 10th grade, she had such a tender, loving and giving spirit, (even to kids who bullied her) that she gained more friends than she could have ever dreamed. By 11th grade she was in 90% regular classes. Throughout high school she was on the honor roll, and this past June graduated with honors.

Melissa also stood up in the public school for the Christ that set her free. And has led many teens to the freedom that only God can give.

Melissa also struggled with feeling as though she was gay--read testimony here. (She spoke about this on National TV "TCT ALIVE" in January 2007)

Today, Melissa works as a GREETER at Meijer's. She loves to work with children and teens. For Easter she dresses up as the Easter Bunny and helps her mother and Snickers give away Easter Baskets to less fortunate children after a trick presentation about Christ rising from the dead. This past year 15 children accepted Christ as a result of her labor of love. She's also attending clown school. And she speaks alongside her mother and Snickers to offer hope to other Mothers & Daughters,  teens, and children through their new anti-abuse, violence and bullying program, Take A Bite Out Of Abuse.

Melissa is also a published artist. Three of her recent drawings appeared in Positive Teens.    

Melissa's Art Gallery

The story behind Melissa’s impairment can be found in the book, "The Pictures That Destroy The Mind".

YOU GO GIRL!