The heartfelt email, below, was written to a Mountain Valley therapist by a special young woman who graduated from MVTC in January 2015 – almost a year to the day. It says so much about the wonderful kids with whom we work – and the talented professionals who have such an impact on them. With the permission of both author and recipient, we share the email.

To My Momma Goose,

These past three years have put so much weight on my family’s shoulders. With constant change in med…ications, to shock treatments to my brain, we didn’t know what to do next. But then a gift was given to us. Mountain Valley Treatment Center is a gift that will always be cherished in my family. 2015 has become the best year for me because of them.

I learned that transitioning back home would be tough. I learned that little steps at a time was the greatest thing. I graduated high school after thinking I’d have to stay back a year. I got my first job, where I learned that people might not fight for you, and you have to do what’s best for yourself. I got my license and became so much more independent, but most of all, I learned how to respect myself, and to know that I deserve more than the words and actions I was being given. I learned just how strong and beautiful I really am. I finally became a true woman.

I want to thank so many people for their influence in this past year for me. Most importantly I want thank a woman that became an angel to me. My Momma Goose.

Sharon, you taught me so much strength and courage. You never backed down on anything with me. You showed me how some of my fears were normal but didn’t have to be in the way of my life.
Even though the chugging of seltzer water will always have me curse your name, you gave me hope, and my family hope.

You became an angel for me.

I hope the start to your 2016 is as beautiful and strong as you are.

Happy New Years, Momma Goose.

Emily K.