Such a Dirty Word

After hearing the details of her traumatic upbringing and difficult childhood, one would expect sadness, anger and resentment. But Sky is none of those things. She is confident and resolute. And remarkably grateful to the many people who have…

A Note in the Drawer

Only a few hours had passed, but Lisa knew something was wrong. Desperate, yet helpless to reach her husband, she suddenly remembered the Aleph Institute. Months earlier, he told her how supportive Aleph had been, making sure he had kosher food,…

Two Little Girls

For most kids, grandparents are a source of goodies and gifts. But for two little girls, they are even more: they are lifesavers. Born out of wedlock to a Jewish woman whose life spiraled out of control in her early teens, the two sisters experienced…

Not Alone Anymore

For most mothers, having a son in jail is a curse. But for Jessica, it was a blessing. That’s because her addicted son languished on the streets—homeless, hungry and helpless. In jail, he could sober up, and get food and shelter. And she…

Loved

Looking at him today, one would never guess where he has been. Diagnosed with a host of mental-health problems, Michael was sent to a special school in Utah at just twelve years old. He was an angry and deviant youngster suffering from oppositional…

FRIENDS

Nathan didn’t have time for friends growing up. He was too busy worrying about his mother. She was suffering from lupus and pulmonary hypertension, and Nathan spent his days consumed with an aching fear for her health. “I would constantly…

In Prison and Sick

Prison is the worst place to be when you have a serious medical condition. But that’s exactly where Michelle found herself after the government convicted her of fraud. While running a jewelry business with her husband, Michelle frequently…