Motivating Stories from Local Women
Every woman has a story to tell, and no two stories are alike. Meet the women who have persevered through challenges and tribulations and come out the other side stronger than ever.
These unique individuals have seen their fair share of adversity but continue to inspire those around them with the lessons they have learned and their love of life. Read on for a motivating story by a woman who experienced them firsthand.
Working to prevent youth suicide is a priority for me. I’m committed to working together with others so that our children can live their life’s purpose and reach their full potential."
I’m a 10-year transplant from Detroit, Michigan. I am a mother, a wife, an entrepreneur, an author, and a woman of faith. I’ve always enjoyed being a mother to my two beautiful daughters. My husband and I raised them in a healthy and loving environment.
Then, one day our world turned completely upside down when I experienced a mother’s worst nightmare involving my eldest child. She spiraled downward into major depression, which led to several suicide attempts. I did everything I could to make sure I provided my children with the best life and all of the love and attention they needed. I believe most of us parents want our children to excel in academics, form great friendships, and avoid being negatively influenced by their peers. None of us want to experience them spiraling into depression. Or worst yet, into suicide.
When this experience happened, it shook me to my core because all I wanted for my child was for her to be everything I had imagined for her life. Well, as we all know, life can throw us some unexpected curveballs. And when it happens to your child, it’s a feeling of helplessness.
I am happy to say that my daughter is still alive today and living out her life’s purpose. However, I wanted to share this experience with the world and wrote a book, Three Failed Attempts One Faithful God, because I knew there had to be other mothers who needed to be encouraged by my story of victory. I also formed a Facebook support group– titled Save Our Descendants – which was created for parents who have children battling depression. It includes videos of real people sharing their stories of triumph over depression and other resources provided by local mental health professionals and educators.
Working to prevent youth suicide is a priority for me. I’m committed to working together with others so that our children can live their life’s purpose and reach their full potential.
Ronni Pruitt, Ooltewah
