My name is Yvonne. I’m currently serving a life sentence in State Correctional Institution at Muncy, Pennsylvania, USA. I was arrested in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the age of 21. I have been incarcerated for 41 years.
When I first came to SCI Muncy, I struggled. I had a hard time adjusting to this environment. I was also in denial and couldn’t face the fact that I was given a life sentence. I was angry, bitter, hurt and filled with pain. I didn’t want to think about it, let alone talk about it with anyone. The last thing I wanted to do was share my thoughts or express how I was feeling. Of course, this attitude had a negative effect on my behavior. During this adjustment period I received misconducts for disobeying the rules.
As time passed by I started watching and noticing some of my peers who were also serving a life sentence. They were positive. I was inspired and motivated by what they did from day to day. They were involved in groups, school, workshops, seminars, church and a lifer’s organization. I was encouraged and decided to make a change. I thought, “If they can do it, so can I!”
I was determined to strive for something different. I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to be honest, open-minded and willing today. I wanted the benefits of a new way of life, a newfound freedom. I was ready to talk about those underlying issues which kept me in bondage for so long. I learned the importance of having a support system. I finally went outside of my comfort zone and asked for help.
I attended and participated in numerous groups. These groups were part of my healing process. The more I shared the more I was healed. Another part of my healing was allowing God back into my life, letting him comfort, heal and strengthen me. I attend church each and every Sunday and have been doing so for years. I continuously count on my higher power to guide and direct my path. I came here with a High School Diploma, so I was determined to further my education by attending vocational, academic and college courses. I graduated from the Education Department six times. I earned an Associates Degree in Christian Counseling. I am currently working on a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology. I love to learn, and all that I learned I gave back to my peers. I was an education tutor for years. I’m currently enrolled in the Penn State/Muncy Tutoring Program.
I worked in the Drug & Alcohol Therapeutic Community for many years. This is an inpatient program, supporting my peers on their road to recovery. I facilitated numerous groups, chaired NA, AA, self-help meetings etc.
My days are very busy. I love to stay busy and keep my mind and body occupied. I’m currently a Certified Peer Support Specialist. My day consists of going door to door checking in with my peers. Motivating and inspiring them. Letting them know that change is possible. It’s not too late. They can make a difference.
This is a mental health unit. I live in the unit, so I’m on call whenever they need me. Since 2013 I worked on many general population units inspiring many women along the way.
Currently I also work with the Young Adult Offenders Program meeting with them, sharing positive readings and getting their feedback, doing yoga postures/breathing techniques and closing with guided meditations.
Throughout my incarceration, I set numerous goals. I remained focused, determined and dedicated. It gave me meaning and purpose. I strived hard and never gave up until I was successful. With this attitude, I obtained accomplishments over and over again. Today I’m a very strong minded person regardless of my situation, encouraging others to be strong. I’m living proof that change is possible. It will endure, benefitting me as well as others I come in contact with.
Today I’m a 62 year old grandmother of five beautiful granddaughters. I have one son who I have a very close loving relationship with. I’m grateful for that and appreciate his support. I had many, many relatives who passed away throughout the years.
My remaining relatives still love and support me. They are important to me because they are my relatives and lifeline to the outside — I love them all very much.
My greatest ongoing challenge in prison is wanting to be with my remaining family members. Just wanting my freedom. Until then, I will remain strong and hold my head up high each day.
I have to admit, I don’t know much about the prison system in Australia. I can tell you what I do know and have learned about Australia!! They have some of the most amazing athletes in the world!!!! I love sports, and I enjoyed watching your country in ACTION during the Summer Olympics in Paris. GO AUSSIES! They represented their country well, winning plenty of Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals!
Yvonne.
