Hay’s Story
Hay, a 17-year-old girl from Myanmar, was referred to our shelter after enduring years of verbal and physical abuse at home. As the only daughter among three brothers, she endured constant conflicts, which intensified when she expressed her desire to study and have her own room, a room her family had demolished to enlarge the house. Overwhelmed, Hay fled home and stayed with friends until a social worker intervened and safely brought her to the shelter.
Upon arrival, Hay was emotionally wounded but determined to heal. Through counselling, Bible study, and support from her peers, she gradually regained her cheerful nature. Though she longed to reconcile with her family, this seemed impossible after they publicly declared her ‘dead’ and cut off all contact.
During this time, we worked with an established family therapy centre for professional counselling. With their support, Hay’s family agreed to therapy. Over seven sessions, guided by our counsellor, they gained a new understanding of one another. A breakthrough came in the seventh session when her father placed his hands on Hay and prayed, symbolizing forgiveness and healing. Following that moment, Hay began short visits home and even celebrated family birthdays. By the eighth session, full reconciliation was achieved, and in July, she officially returned home, supported by follow-up visits from our team. Today, Hay studies and works part-time while maintaining a renewed relationship with her family, a testament of restoration through love, counselling, and faith.
