At 15 years old, Brandy has seen things that many adults will never see – and should never see - in their lifetime.  This beautiful young lady has been subject to severe abuse, both physical and emotional.  Despite all the obstacles she has had to face, Brandy’s story is one of courage, resilience and grace. Her outlook is still bright and she is living a safe, healthy, happy life at St. Jude’s Ranch for Children.

Born to a drug addicted mother, Brandy has seen family members struggle with addiction of all types.  As a young child, she witnessed the results of extreme addiction as her brother attempted suicide in her presence.  Her scars and memories run deep from the incident and our trained, dedicated staff work hard everyday to help her manage and cope with her emotions through our therapeutic program.

Brandy was sexually abused at the hands of her mother’s boyfriends and as a result, she has struggled to build healthy relationships throughout her life.  But living at St. Jude’s has given her the opportunity to discover what real love  and nurturing is, and to finally feel safe in her own bed at night.

The holiday season is typically difficult for the children living at St. Jude’s Ranch and Brandy is no exception.  Having lived most of life in cars, seedy motels and on the streets, the thought of having the holidays in a warm and loving home is unfamiliar and overwhelming for her.  Brandy stated recently, “This is going to be the best Christmas ever!”  She will have her first Christmas tree this year.

In the six months Brandy has been living at St. Jude’s Ranch, she has excelled both in school and at home.  She is learning how to trust, to love again and has embraced the staff in her cottage.  She continues to improve each and every day and she hopes to transform her new outlook on life into a successful career as a pediatric nurse.  Brandy says her dream is to help others as she has been helped at St. Jude’s Ranch.  We know she can do it.  And now she know she can, too.