While Miriam was still a preschooler, the family court of Georgia left her in the sole custody of her neglectful mother, an undiagnosed mental case. When bullied at school for her shabby appearance, Miriam stuffed her pain as deep inside herself as possible.

Young Miriam knew three things. First, her parents didn’t want her. Second, her world was filled with abuse and pain. Third, the best way to make a good decision was to do the opposite of what her mother would do.

A traumatic event struck Miriam like a hurricane at age 17 when a rapist stole her virginity. Although her mother tried to force her to end the crisis pregnancy, she made a decision that would enable her to continue to love herself and triumph over tragedy and pain.

Miriam’s perseverance developed early. Despite surviving two murder attempts by age three, she remained ambitious, bright, and caring.

Against the odds, grit and love prevail throughout Miriam’s story. You’ll understand why she loves certain people so much, the simple ways that anyone can help a child, and what it takes to be a survivor.