Aug. 26, 2025

Under the Shadow of Abuse : Escaping a Toxic Parent and Finding Freedom with Serfine Okeyo

Under the Shadow of Abuse : Escaping a Toxic Parent and Finding Freedom with Serfine Okeyo

[Content Warning]: Child abuse, emotional abuse, suicidal ideation, gaslighting, suicide attempt, physical abuse

Today, Jan is joined by Serfine Okeyo, a Johns Hopkins University student studying economics, shares her journey of surviving systemic abuse from her mother, a psychiatric nurse who for years denied her medical treatment for chronic depression and suicidal ideation. Serfine recounts witnessing her mother's abuse of a disabled patient, which allegedly led to the patient's death, and her ongoing fight for justice. Despite the trauma, she found healing through therapy, medication, and support at Johns Hopkins. Now estranged from her mother, Serfine is reclaiming her life, advocating for mental health awareness, and building a chosen family. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection.

Serfine is in the process of writing a book, if you feel you can assist with this, or just need someone to talk to, her inbox is always open:
Insta: @dreamingdragonf1y

National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text 988
National Sexual Assault Hotline  (RAINN) : 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
National Alliance for Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264

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