Twelve Days of Agape- The Story of Leah

To start the 12 stories of Agape, we will start with the story that opened our eyes and expanded our hearts and outreach. The story of “Leah”.

I finally feel ready to share my story.

It still hurts when I think about my past, but I’m grateful for the redemption of Jesus Christ.

In 2019, I was 18 years old and trying to live on my own in a new country. I made very little money and found myself struggling to pay rent and to even buy food to eat.

In my desperation, I was introduced to a world I never dreamed I would become part of. The world of prostitution.

I was quickly seduced by the easy money.

My “boss” would pay me extra money if I would agree to participate in sexual activities with him and others.

Once I sold my body in that way, it became easier for me to sell my body in other ways. 

I was recruited by a married couple to begin a career in pornography. Once I was hired, I was kept in their home. Never allowed to leave alone or communicate with my family like I once could.

During this time, my parents moved to Orlando. They were concerned about my wellbeing and could tell something wasn’t right.

I had an opportunity to travel to Orlando and break free from the couple I was working for. 

I wanted to be near my family again but I also carried enormous guilt for the work I had been involved in.

Just when I thought things couldn’t become worse, I was introduced to “Paul.”

Paul found me at a gas station without any money and offered to buy me cigarettes and a place to stay that night.

One night turned to many. 

Paul took control of my ID and introduced me to harder drugs and alcohol. I found myself quickly becoming addicted.

When I would think about leaving, he reminded me of past. He would tell me that no man would ever want me and threatened to tell my family about my prostitution. Even more concerning, He said he would share intimate photos on social media that he had taken of me and that he wouldn’t let me leave alive. 

I believed him.

Three months later, I discovered that I was pregnant. 

Paul took me to Agape Women’s Center because they offered free pregnancy tests and ultrasound.

As I entered Agape, I felt peace and love. 

I felt safe and opened up to the staff about my story. 

I didn’t find judgement. I found compassion. They listened to me and reminded me of my value and worth through Christ.

They showed me the tiny miracle of life within me and something began to change in my heart. I knew my baby deserved better than this life I was currently living in.

Agape offered resources. They didn’t want me to leave with Paul and I could see their concern, but I still left with him that day.

A few weeks later, I contacted my parents. They came to where I was living and I left with the clothes on my back. 

Paul followed through with his threats and posted humiliating photos of me online. 

I was so embarrassed and full of shame. There were times I would pull chunks of my hair out and bang my head on a wall just so I could feel a different type of pain. 

During those dark moments, I would think about Agape and the words they spoke over me. It helped me continue to move forward not only for myself but for my unborn daughter.

I began therapy for women who have been trafficked and started attending church with my parents. 

I gave birth to a beautiful little girl who has become my greatest joy and blessing.

I reached to Agape recently. I wanted them to know that they saved my life the day I went to their center.

They told me that my story opened their eyes to trafficking and because of my story, they started outreach into places where women work that are being sexually exploited.

I am still on a path of healing but will forever be grateful to the staff at Agape Women’s Center.