I am a 16-year-old survivor of child abuse and neglect at the hands of my biological mother. From birth until I was six years old, I endured physical and emotional torment that has left lasting scars on my mental health. The memories of being hit, yelled at, and locked in rooms by my own mother are still vividly etched in my mind.

When she decided to abandon her parental responsibilities, it was left to my eldest sister that was 9 to care for me and our two other sisters 8 and 7. Despite her best efforts, we were children raising children because our mother refused to be a parent.

Recently, the restraining order against her was lifted by a judge. This decision has brought back all the fear and anxiety that I've been trying hard to overcome. It's not just about me; it's also about protecting other vulnerable individuals who might fall prey to her abusive behavior.

According to the U.S Department of Health & Human Services (2019), children who experience early life stress like abuse or neglect have an increased risk for numerous health problems such as depression or anxiety disorders later in life.

I am living proof of these statistics - struggling with mental health issues due directly to the trauma inflicted upon me by my biological mother during those formative years.

I urge you all now - let us stand together against child abuse! Let us ensure that those responsible face justice! We must demand that this restraining order be reinstated immediately! And let's push further – let’s seek legal repercussions for her actions so no other child suffers as we did!

Please sign this petition today; help protect victims like myself from their abusers. Your support could make all the difference in ensuring justice is served.  Please help so I can keep smiling.