The Hands That Held Me

Who do you turn to when everyone has hurt you?

Lisa Jo Symonds' memoir, The Hands That Held Me, is a personal journey through trauma, addiction, and salvation. She recounts the various types of physical and sexual abuse she encountered while growing up in an addicted household and the officials who failed to be her aid.

At 15 years old, she became pregnant and ran away, surviving among drug and prostitution-filled streets, while searching herself for forgiveness to all who hurt her. Years after her sister's overdose and her own suicide attempt, Lisa describes her lowest point in life. She discusses how she came to realize God had never abandoned her, but rather had great plans for her and the story she had buried for 50 years.

Through her strength, determination, and faith, Lisa survived an unstable childhood, endured the challenges of being a single parent, and overcame abusive relationships. Despite it all, she earned her master's degree in public health and uses her education to help improve the health and lives of others on a global scale.

Lisa began sharing her story through a series of powerful Facebook posts that extended over a 2-month period. As she exposed her own trauma, other stepped forth, inspired and strengthened by her own admission.

Over the course of her story, Lisa saw her social media account jump from 200 friends to 5,000 in a matter of weeks. Her experiences have influenced fellow abuse survivors to reach out and seek the help that they need.