"Without CASA, I would not have such a wonderful, amazing woman in my corner cheering me on in every aspect of my life!" - Melyssa, Former CASA Youth
WRITTEN BY:
MELYSSA
The CASA organization was the tiny bit of assurance I had in my life during my time as a foster child living in a group home, and with my parents. Nothing was certain for me after many broken promises from so many people. The CASA organization helped me build trust with at least one person in my life, Helen. If Helen said she was seeing us on a certain day, or at a certain event, I knew I was able to trust her and have something to look forward to!
I met Helen in 2004 when I was living in a group home with my brother. I was seven at the time and he was eight. Every time we saw her we knew we were in for a treat. The trip that I remember most vividly was our zoo trip. I was quite the handful, so I know it wasn't very relaxing for Helen! We had a blast, of course. I even got to pick out my own peacock feather to take back with me! Helen took us on multiple trips while we were living there and spoiled us rotten. Soon after, we moved in with our family now but our visits with Helen continued. It was the only thing in life for me that was familiar and stress free.
Every single time, even from our first visit, she always had a water bottle and snack for us in the seat back pocket. Just a small gesture went such a long way for me, even as a little kid! She was with us through everything, even when we weren't at court hearings, she was there. Helen was the first person in my life who showed me no judgement, regardless of knowing my past. That didn't matter to her. Helen poured so much love into us. I never questioned her loyalty or had any ounce of distrust. For a child like myself at that point in my life, that was difficult for me to do with anyone else. I will forever be grateful for such unconditional love Helen showed my brother and me, especially when I thought I was not worthy of such love.
Eighteen years later we are still in contact and keep up with each other via Facebook. I am on active duty in the Army and deployed in 2016. One day I received a surprise package from Helen with a frame with the last picture I took with my son, along with a lovely letter! That picture is still in my son's room to this day!
We recently got to catch up and visit this past December. She got to meet my siblings and my 4-year-old son, Emmett, for the first time! Helen will also be attending my wedding this December! I am forever grateful for CASA and I am forever grateful that Helen got put into my life. Without CASA, I would not have such a wonderful, amazing woman in my corner cheering me on in every aspect of my life!