By the time Destiny got pregnant at age 13, she had lost both of her parents and was no longer attending eighth grade classes regularly.
She was living with her brother’s boss when she first noticed her baby bump. At first Destiny didn’t believe it; she had thought she was just putting on weight. But as the shock wore off, she panicked. “I can’t have this child. It’s too hard, especially without my parents.”
Feeling sad and unsure, she considered all of her options. Eventually, Destiny decided that even though she got pregnant, “it was not going to be the end.” It was not going to keep her from her dreams. However, she still didn’t know what to do. She wanted to go to school, but she didn’t know who would care for her baby, or how she would afford the expenses of a child without a full-time job.
It was at this time that Destiny learned about Florence Crittenton Services. The integrative, wrap-around services at Florence Crittenton have allowed Destiny to stay in school, and Eliana, now 3, to thrive in a supportive, educational environment. “They help us with so much, they want us to become successful.” Destiny especially appreciates the Early Childhood Education, diapers, clothing, and RTD bus passes that Florence Crittenton provides, saying that if it weren’t for these things she would have had to drop out. Because of this support, Destiny feels much more mature and self-sufficient. She feels able to advocate for herself and Eliana, and has cut many negative influences out of their lives to ensure Eliana’s wellbeing. Destiny’s top priority is Eliana’s safety, health, and happiness.
In her three years here, Destiny has made great strides academically. “I’m really proud of myself,” she reflects. “My writing has got so much better. English is my favorite subject.” Destiny looks forward to graduating in 2018 and becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse after earning her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate through the Florence Crittenton career pathways program.
When asked about her dreams for Eliana, she states, “I want her to succeed in school and life—if I can do it, then she can do it.”
