It Only Hurts When I Can't Run: One Girl's Story with Gewanda J. Parker

Gewanda Johnson Parker shares her remarkable story of survival suffering physical and emotional abuse by a mother who really did care about her but was overpowered by her own demons and addictions. Molested and raped on more than one occasion, by men considered upright and pillars in the community.  Yet through it all, her faith, spirituality and deep trust in God never wavered.  Her incredible resilience, allowed a young girl, turned woman, to forgive those who hurt her and to reach out to all those who hurt with a message of God’s love, healing, transformation and hope.Gewanda Johnson Parker is also the Founder and CEO of Hope and Healing Corporation serving the needs of the marginalized of society locally and abroad to orphanages in Haiti and Africa. In 2003, she started an organization to help young girls and teens suffering with self-esteem and identity issues. Parker received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Edward Waters College and she holds a Master of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary.   Prior to establishing Hope and Healing, G-Girls, and Anchored, she has taught in the public school system as an educator for over 20 years. She was nominated and selected 3 times for the prestigious award for Who’s Who Among Americas Teachers; and twice nominated and selected into the Prestigious Cambridge Leadership Award. She was also selected as one of Oprah Winfrey’s, educational O Ambassadors for a humanitarian service project for the country of India.  In addition to her educational experience, Gewanda has served as a dynamic ministry leader in the areas of staff pastors, women’s leader, administration, worship leader, small group facilitator, missions and pioneering of grass roots ministrieswww.gewanda.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.