Michelle Torez

Before I had even started my period, at just twelve years old, I was dragged off and put into an NHS mental health hospital in Newcastle, England known then as 'Roycroft Clinic', and subjected to years and years of sexual, physical, mental, and financial abuse. Upon release, I was given a dirty flat with mice and hot water issues. I ended up being sexually assaulted and attempting suicide. I went on to cut my arm and wrist so deeply that it needed twelve stitches and has resulted in permanent scarring. I ended up being sent to court and charged for 'wasting the crisis team's time'. Punished for struggling. Fast forward to this present day in 2021. I am now making money from my three published books of poetry, make daily motivational videos inspiring people, and am about halfway through writing my debut novel detailing what I went through and how I survived. I am an example of determination and resilience. If you stick at something and really put your mind to it, you can achieve your dreams. I write to raise awareness, and I stand up for the oppressed, the people that were told to be quiet. I write about people being told to “get on with it” by crisis teams and disabled people’s benefits being slashed. I will be passionate about this for the rest of my life. No matter how horrible your situation may be right now, nothing stays the same forever, please, never, ever give up. Peace and thank you for reading.