Worth It: Christine’s Journey to Strength, Self-Acceptance, and Survival

What Makes You a Beautiful Disaster?

I’m vintage, classic, sassy, and just a tiny bit classy.

Why Do You Identify with the Beautiful Disaster Brand?

I love this brand—it speaks when I cannot.

Tell Us Your Beautiful Disaster Story

I lost my mom at 14 and became the “chief cook and bottle washer” at home, helping take care of my dad and two siblings. I had to grow up fast.

I developed early, and at 16 I was raped by a friend of a friend. That was a secret I carried for a long time, until I was much older.

I wore many hats and worked all sorts of jobs—from food service to secretary, to automotive, to construction. I did it all, but eventually settled into construction. I took my show on the road and worked all over the country, traveling by myself and staying in some pretty shady places.

At one point, I was cornered by a fellow worker, but I managed to get away. I learned a lot through those experiences—strength, dignity, and resilience.

I was also in relationships where I was abused. One man beat me and choked me to the point where I almost died. I didn’t understand why I seemed to pick men who were abusive. I can’t blame my family, because I had loving, kind parents. It just took me a long time to realize my worth and find the courage to leave those situations.

I’ve always loved the outdoors, motorcycles, and classic cars. I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, which made my behavior risky when I was manic and incredibly difficult when I was depressed. Finally getting that under control changed my life. I learned it’s okay to ask for help and not keep everything bottled up.

In my 40s, I was injured and had to retire from my job, which was really hard for me.

Later in life, close to 50, I met a good man—the right man—and got married for the first time. We bought a home that I love, and now I travel for fun with friends, family, and my husband.

I rescue exotic animals, which brings me happiness, and I love to give back by donating to causes that matter to me. My favorite holiday is Halloween, and I celebrate all month long with my many spooky leggings.

After my injury, I gained weight, and my self-esteem suffered. But I have finally accepted myself as I am—and that is a big deal.

As a Beautiful Disaster, I’ve survived, I’ve thrived, and I’ve become a well-rounded person.

What Happened for You to Turn It Around?

I woke up one day and said, “Enough!!! I am worth it.”

Name 3 Things You’ve Done to Move Closer to Happiness

Rescue animals
Met a Good man
Learned to love myself

What Is Your Favorite Beautiful Disaster Collection, Past or Present, and Why?

The You Don't Know my story!!