My name is Jayna*. I am the youngest of six children—four brothers and two sisters—and I have experienced both deep loss and new beginnings in my life. Today I am grateful to say I am celebrating almost seven months of sobriety. That alone is something I never imagined I would be able to say with confidence and pride.
I have been living at Baptist Children’s Home (BCH) since February, and I came here straight from rehab with my babies. Being able to bring all four of my children with me was one of the biggest reasons I chose this place. It was incredibly hard to find somewhere that would accept us as a family, but Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children did, and that changed everything for me. I love living here and the opportunity it has given me to rebuild my life alongside my children.
When I first arrived, the biggest adjustment was figuring out what to do next. I had come from a rehab environment where every step of the day was directed for me, so suddenly being responsible for my own schedule and decisions—while also learning a new environment—felt overwhelming. I did not always know where to start, but I focused on the basics. I began with things like setting up childcare and health insurance, and I am so thankful for my family advisor who helped guide me and get me on the right track.
What I love most about living on campus is how supportive and straightforward everything is. The rules are clear, and I do not have a problem following them, because I know they are in place to help my children and me thrive. This is a good place to raise my children, and I feel a sense of stability here that I have not had in a long time.
One of my favorite memories so far was taking family photos with my girls shortly after we arrived. We had only been on campus for about a week, but it was such a sweet and meaningful moment. It reminded me that even in a new and unfamiliar season, I still have beautiful moments with my family that I can hold onto.
My time here has also deepened my faith. Recently, I learned how to find passages in the Bible by using the names and numbers. I did not even know how to read a Bible when I first arrived. God is working in my life, and I can see Him continuing to shape me and guide my steps.
While I have been here, I have completed my GED and started welding school at Tulsa Welding School. I just began welding not too long ago, and it is going well so far. My plan is to graduate, find a good job that supports my children’s needs and schedule, and eventually go back to school for electrical work.
*Name changed to protect privacy.
Prayer Requests
More than anything, I am asking for prayer for guidance, patience, and my children’s well-being.