Kellie’s Story in Her Own Words: “Finding Myself Again”

My name is Kellie Jimenez, and I’ve been many things in my life, but I’m most proud to say that I am an artist, a mom, and a grandma. I am also a recovering alcoholic with an anxiety disorder and a schizoaffective diagnosis.

I grew up in a very dysfunctional family. From as early as I can remember, my parents fought over me like a monkey in the middle. As a baby, I would have panic attacks and even pass out. Looking back, I spent my childhood managing my parents’ emotions instead of them managing mine.  

I was afraid that if I was myself with my dad, he would reject me—or worse, harm himself. If I was myself with my mom, she would become angry and abusive. When I was seven years old, my father died by suicide, and that’s when the voices began: the negative self-talk, the blame, all the noise. 

During this time, my mother, who struggled with alcoholism, checked out on me. We moved twelve times in seven years. By the time I was twelve, I ran away and refused to go back. I ended up in a group home and eventually moved to live with my grandmother. 

After high school, I fell into an abusive marriage. My children and I eventually escaped and came to California. That’s when my drinking really took over. I lost custody of my son because nobody understood that I had a mental illness. At the time, I truly believed I was damaged, worthless, and hopeless. 

God stepped in through my aunt, who sent me to Seven Sons, a mental health facility. I was not functional when I arrived. But when I finally became completely honest—with the staff, with my family, and with myself, things began to shift. I couldn’t imagine life without my children, and that became my reason to try.  

After my discharge, I went to Interim’s Bridge House. That’s where I met Susan Briar, my biggest cheerleader. I also met Beth Barrell from Interim’s outreach team, who connected me with resources and guided me without pressure. 

Eventually, I went to Shelter Cove, where I learned who I was, got connected with a doctor, and began taking medication. From there, I moved into permanent housing. Hope…that’s what I needed most, and that’s what Interim gave me. 

Interim gave me more than housing; they gave me hope and faith in myself. When I first moved in, I feared the world. Now, thanks to Interim, I have a home, and I’ve found myself again. 

I still have moments, but I work through my mental health every day—with therapy, AA, groups, and giving back.  

They say it takes a village. It does. And it doesn’t always mean the family you’re born into—it’s the family that accepts you. And if you can’t find one, you’re more than welcome to join mine. 

Kellie’s mental health recovery story shows what donors make possible. We invite you to Get Involved and Learn More at https://www.interiminc.org/get-involved/