Their Stories: Lyn Sargent

“I had a rough childhood. I was molested throughout; I was taken from my mother for a while. I took care of my mother instead of being a child. I want my kids’ childhoods to be fun and loving.”

“My main concerns are whether we are going to have a roof over our heads and food in our stomachs. That is an everyday thought and fight. I am a big worrier.”

“I live with my children, my husband Ernie, and four other people. When my son William is at school, my daughter Olivia and I have story time and play. We just try to have a good day. I currently put a hold on college until she is old enough to go to school. When William comes home, we do homework, and then story time after dinner.”

“William is outgoing, very creative, and loves to read, but then he’s shy and never talks much. Olivia thinks she is the boss. She also loves to read and she may be shy at first, but once she gets to know you, she’s good. I’d like them to grow up and go to good colleges and get good jobs to support themselves and their families.”

“My favorite thing to do with my family is play outside, especially in the summer. We’ll go to the pool together. My kids love it when I read to them during story time and bedtime. The best thing is when they are both at my sides and fall asleep in my arms.”

“I am the most proud of myself because I have come a long way. My babies are what I am proud of next because I wasn’t supposed to have babies, but I have two beautiful ones. Also, overcoming drug addiction is a struggle every day. My future plans are to finish my college degree and further my job search so I can get a good job.”

A survivor of child molestation and drug addiction, Lyn Sargent lives with her husband Ernie, her son William, and her daughter Olivia in West Virginia. She is a full-time mother to her two children, in the Save the Children Early Steps to School Success program, and working towards a secretarial career.

Photos: Audrey Hall for Show of Force