Taylers Road to Recovery
My name is Tayler Mack. When I was 14 years old, I was beaten, stabbed more than 12 times with a kitchen knife, doused in lighter fluid, set on fire, and left to burn in the smoldering field. I was the victim of domestic violence. His goal was to kill me, but I survived.
Despite surviving, I was left with extensive injuries. To date, I’ve had over 20 reconstructive surgeries and my left ear has been amputated. I also have 3rd degree burns and scaring on my head neck and shoulder. I’ve undergone a blood transfusion, skin grafts, a kidney bypass, scar revision, tissue expanders to stretch my skin, and craniofacial implants to support a prosthetic ear, which every two years must be replaced. These are just a few of the surgeries I’ve had since I was left for dead. I must continue certain reconstructive procedures for the rest of my life. These physical scars are just the beginning. I also suffer from severe and debilitating PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I was left disfigured, scared, and alone. I was left for dead.
But today, I chose to fight. I chose to fight to heal mentally, to continue my medical treatments, to finish my college degree in psychology, and to help other victims of domestic violence. I’m no longer able to be on my family’s health insurance as I have aged out. At the age of 25, the past unpaid medical bills and the cost of impending future surgeries have me drowning in medical debt.
I have been working several jobs to support myself. I’ve been unable to complete my college degree with my graduating class due to my surgeries, court dates related to his prosecution, and severe PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
I didn’t choose to be a victim, but I am choosing to be fighter. I am going to achieve my goal of completing my college degree and fighting for victims of domestic violence. Any financial assistance or assistance with medical or mental health treatment you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/breaking-news/os-tayler-mack-teen-dating-violence-20160509-story.html
https://www.theledger.com/article/LK/20110319/News/608077132/LL/
