A Dark Secret . . .
A devastating past of abusive, and failed relationships plagued Melissa for most of her life. Though the trauma was suppressed for many years, she learned to cope and found comfort through the unconditional love of horses.…

A Redeemed Future . . .
After struggling for many years with fear, anxiety, depression, anger, rage, low self-esteem, self-hatred, suicidal thoughts, and many different coping mechanisms, Melissa hit rock bottom. Through Biblical counseling, Melissa went on an amazing healing journey! What followed was redemption and complete transformation, by a gracious, merciful and loving Father. After hearing Kim Meeder, founder of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in Bend, Oregon, on a local Christian radio station, Melissa’s husband bought her Kim’s first book, Hope Rising. After reading how Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch rescues horses from abuse and neglect and pairs them with broken, hurting children, Melissa felt a call to go to the ranch and learn how to start a similar ministry. Melissa desires to bring hope and healing into the lives of others, especially those who have endured abuse, showing God’s love through the unconditional love of a horse.