The Hands That Held Me is Lisa Jo Symonds’ personal journey through childhood trauma - of abuse, child trafficking, addiction, overdose, and ultimately victory over all that meant to destroy her. She describes in shocking and honest details the various types of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse she encountered while growing up.

At 15 years old, she became pregnant and ran away, surviving among drug and prostitution-filled streets, while searching herself for forgiveness for all who hurt her. Years after her sister's death to overdose and her own suicide attempt, Lisa describes her lowest points in life.

Through her strength, determination, and faith, she survived a traumatic childhood, endured the challenges of being a single parent, overcame abusive relationships, and broke free from a lifetime of multiple addictions. She shares with listeners how she was able to do this on her own without withdrawals or cravings and after repeated failed attempts with traditional addiction treatment programs and counselors.

This is a story of victory in the face of a lifetime of adversity. Lisa began sharing her story through a series of powerful posts on Facebook in May of 2018 that extended over a two-month period. Some of the actual posts are incorporated into The Hands That Held Me. As she exposed the horrific memories of her own childhood and publicly admitted to her addictions and afflictions, others stepped forth, inspired by her story, to tell their own story and begin their own journey of healing and recovery.

About the author: Lisa Jo earned a dual bachelor’s and master’s degree in health sciences - public health. She uses her life experiences and her education to improve the health and lives of others on a global scale. Lisa Jo is the American ambassador of Hope for Rural Orphans, an orphanage in Mbale, Uganda. She also focuses much of her attention to actively raising awareness and pushing for public health policy changes regarding addiction and treatment.