“She has abandoned me, broken my heart, lied about me and given me cold, deadly glares that made me think she wished I were dead.

Mom has also made me feel loved and special, given me a sense of humor and made me feel like a beautiful person.”

With a warm conversational tone, Laurie Kast-Klein describes her tumultuous childhood and the lack of care demonstrated by the Michigan foster care system. From the loving atmosphere of her grandparents’ home to a variety of abusive foster care homes, Laurie has survived and ultimately flourished. Her story is heartfelt and heartbreaking, but her words will inspire you.

Laurie Kast-Klein has been involved in advocacy for abused women and children, and she currently lives with her family in Michigan.