Fresh out of an orphanage-and emotionally disturbed by my experiences there-I came home to a misogynistic stepfather and an indifferent, bookworm mother. My two blonde sisters were considered superior to me, with my dark eyes and hair. I was nicknamed Nig and brutalized by my sisters and stepfather. I survived all this with the help of my fantasy comforter, Mighty Joe Young (the movie gorilla), and Chubby, my precious doll. During my difficult childhood, I promised myself that when I had children, I would love and protect them at all costs. I was determined that they would not suffer the atrocities that I had. This promise became my goal in life. With my emotional damage, I gave my all to live up to the promise. Through two loveless marriages, a life of poverty and struggles, and emotional and physical trauma, I did my best. This is my story….