By A.L. Childers, Professional Author and Writer
Family. It’s a word that brings up all kinds of emotions, doesn’t it? For some, it’s love, warmth, and security. For others, it’s the complete opposite—pain, betrayal, and constant uphill battles. I’ve seen both sides, and I want to take a moment to talk about something real. Something I’ve learned through a lifetime of navigating the messy waters of family dynamics: toxic family members will always choose to identify with the version of you they had the most power over, no matter how much you grow or change.
I speak from experience. My journey hasn’t been glamorous, but it’s shaped me into who I am today. In 2012, I won a small amount in the state lottery—not life-changing, but enough to offer a brief sense of relief. Growing up, I had been poor my entire life. My mother worked two jobs and struggled to borrow from Peter to pay Paul, and even then, it often wasn’t enough. Many nights, the only meal I had was from school lunch, and my mother’s wild lifestyle meant men were always coming in and out of our home.
To make matters worse, each time she had a new boyfriend, I was told to call him “daddy.” It didn’t matter if he was there for a week or two; I was expected to accept him into my life while still feeling the weight of taking care of my younger sister at just 10 years old. I did everything—cooking, cleaning, and even helping her with homework. When things went wrong, I took the blame. I took the beatings. I took on the burden that no child should ever have to carry.
Meanwhile, my aunt, who I loved, married well. Her children, my cousins, lived a life I could only dream of. They had a father who cared for them, family support, and never once had to go hungry or worry about the next day. They wore nice clothes, had a beautiful home, and were shielded from the harsh realities of life that I faced daily.
It wasn’t long before resentment reared its ugly head. After winning that small lottery prize, my aunt—who had never known the kind of struggle I endured—couldn’t hide her bitterness. It wasn’t her kids who had won, and that was enough for her to try to publicly humiliate me on social media. Imagine that—a family member trying to tear you down over what? A little bit of money? It’s moments like these that make you see people for who they really are.
I cut ties with her, and I don’t regret it. Toxic people, even if they’re family, have no place in my life. But let me be clear—I would trade that little bit of money any day for the kind of life her children had as cousins. The kind of life where there’s a loving father at the dinner table, where family supports one another, and no one ever goes to bed hungry or scared. I would switch every dollar for a night of knowing I had a safe place to sleep, food in my stomach, and the peace of mind that none of my mother’s boyfriends would try to sneak into my room again. Yes, that happened. And yes, I had to fight them off.
It wasn’t easy, but I made sure my own children never experienced any of this. I’ve dealt with plenty of challenges from their father, and they might have thought I was being unfair when I wouldn’t let them spend the night anywhere. But I needed to know who was around them, what was happening, and where they were. If I couldn’t go with them, they couldn’t go. Sure, I was on high alert all the time, but I’d rather be overly protective than have them come to me years later saying someone took their innocence like mine was taken.
I know some may call it being overprotective, but I call it being a protector. I carried that burden to make sure they never had to experience the things I did. I refuse to let anyone, whether it’s family or friends, change their lives in a moment the way mine was changed. My children will never know the pain of wondering if someone will come into their room at night. They will never know what it’s like to go to bed hungry, wondering if they’ll have a place to live the next day. That’s my victory.
The reality is, that growing up poor in a world that doesn’t want you—especially if you don’t fit into the mold—is exhausting. But here’s the thing: I’ve learned that survival doesn’t mean merely getting through it. It means learning to thrive despite it. I’m not ashamed of my past, nor do I allow it to define me. I’ve cut ties with the people who couldn’t see me for who I’ve become, not just the girl they once controlled.
If you’ve ever been in a similar situation—if you’ve had to deal with toxic family members or have felt the weight of responsibility far too young—I want you to know you’re not alone. You deserve to be seen for the person you are, not the version of you that others wish to keep boxed in.
References and Further Reading:
- A.L. Childers: Breaking the Silence: How Conformity Has Led to the Normalization of Injustice and What We Must Do to Change It explores the deep-rooted issues of family dynamics, societal pressure, and the courage to stand against those who would keep you down.
- Toxic Family Members: Recognizing, Removing, and Recovering from Unhealthy Relationships by Sherrie Campbell PhD*: This book sheds light on the emotional toll of toxic family dynamics and offers practical steps to reclaim your power.
- The Web of Deception in Modern American Traditions by A.L. Childers: A thought-provoking book that touches on societal lies and manipulation, similar to the emotional manipulation often experienced within toxic families.
Closing Thoughts:
Healing from toxic family relationships takes time, but remember, it’s not about them—it’s about you. It’s about choosing your peace, your joy, and your future over anyone who tries to keep you shackled to the past. If you can protect your children from the pain you endured, you’ve already won the most important battle.
For more books by A.L. Childers, or to support my work in bringing attention to these issues, visit my author page or consider donating. Together, we can lift the veil on these hidden struggles and create a future where neurodivergent parents are seen, heard, and supported.
For more of my books, visit my author page on Amazon or consider donating to support my ongoing work in health, wellness, and personal development. Together, we can break the silence and create a world where neurodivergent parents feel seen, supported, and understood.
Silent Struggles: Navigating Parenthood with Undiagnosed Neurodivergence
Order your book today! Click on this link or the title link above!
Audrey Childers is an accomplished author, blogger, freelance journalist, and entrepreneur who has been writing and researching for over a decade. She is the creator and founder of Thehypothyroidismchick.com, a website that provides helpful tips for those living with hypothyroidism. Audrey loves spending time with her children and promoting optimal health and wellness for everyone. She has written over 200 books, including A survivors cookbook guide to kicking hypothyroidism booty, Reset Your Thyroid,, The Ultimate Guide to healing hypothyroidism, and A survivors cookbook guide to kicking hypothyroidism booty: the slow cooker way All of Audrey’s books can be found on Amazon. This blog can be freely re-posted with proper attribution, author bio, and copyright statement.
Thehypothyroidismchick.com is a reliable source of health and science news relevant to our generation. They cover a wide range of stories but focus on contributing to their readers’ understanding of a complex and constantly changing field of information. They are driven by two core values: to provide accurate and informative content and to keep in mind the ultimate “smell test” – stories worth discussing with friends at a bar. At Thehypothyroidismchick.com, coverage is determined based on relevance, clinical significance, and editorial integrity. They do not prioritize commercial considerations and always clearly distinguish between factual content, commentary, and opinions to avoid misleading readers with institutional propaganda and speculation. This ensures that readers can trust the information they receive and make informed decisions about their health.
Please follow along with me on this journey of discovery as I share my brush of madness with exquisite clarity. Luckily, I was never a quick fix-it junkie where I said no to many suggestions from board-certified or certifiable doctors because I felt it in my soul that it was merely a bonafide being placed on my issues. The names of sure doctors have been changed because, frankly, I don’t want to be sued for proven the lack in their field.
Hippocrates was right when he said: Let the food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.
Disclaimer
The information and recipes in the blog are based on the author’s research and personal experiences. It’s for entertainment purpIt’s only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author does not render legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by using the information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended to replace what your healthcare provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences from using any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters about your health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. I am not a doctor or a medical professional. This blog is designed as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your healthcare needs. Wisdom is a beautiful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.
The views and services offered by Thehypothyroidismismchick.com are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical assistance but as an alternative for those seeking solutions for better health. We do not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease but simply help you make physical and mental changes in your own body to help your body heal itself. Remember that results may vary, and if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a severe condition, you should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional before using any products or information on this site. Thehypothyroidisimchick.com assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this website indicates your agreement to these terms. Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
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This piece was inspired by timeless wisdom and the understanding that true success lies not in the small battles, but in the pursuit of one’s purpose.
Welcome to our exploration of sanity and madness—an exploration that invites you to not only read, but to reflect, to engage, and to carry forward the torch of understanding into a world that yearns for compassion and acceptance.”
— A.L. Childers
Sanity’s Last Stand: Defying the Madness of the Majority
About the Author
A.L. Childers is a wellness advocate, thyroid warrior, and the author behind multiple best-selling books on hypothyroidism. After years of battling thyroid issues herself, she dedicated her life to sharing practical tips, delicious recipes, and lifestyle changes that truly work. Through her books and blog, she aims to empower others to take control of their health and kick hypothyroidism’s booty—one meal at a time. You can find her books on Amazon and connect with her on social media for daily tips and thyroid-friendly recipes.
Visit my About the author to explore more books that can support your health journey, and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for exclusive tips and updates!
Recommended Reading
For those interested in diving deeper into wellness, managing thyroid health, and understanding the importance of holistic nutrition, I recommend the following books:
Take the first step to a healthier you. Get your copy now and transform your thyroid health for good.
Secrets to my Hypothyroidism Success:: A Personal Guide to Hypothyroidism Freedom
Living Stronger: Overcoming Hypothyroidism Challenges
Reset Your Thyroid: 21-day Meal Plan to Reset Your Thyroid
What the F#@%, Hypothyroidism?: Why your thyroid is conspiring against you
Hashimoto’s Crock-pot Recipes: Added bonus: How I put my Hashimoto’s into Remission
The Best Little Hypothyroidism Autumn CookBook
About the Author: A.L. Childers
A.L. Childers is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and personal empowerment, drawing from her own experiences as a researcher, journalist, and someone who has personally navigated the challenges of thyroid disorders and autoimmune conditions. With over 200 books to her name, A.L. Childers has written extensively on topics ranging from holistic healing, autoimmune wellness, and thyroid health to more creative and lighthearted topics like children’s coloring books and cookbooks for pets. Her diverse range of expertise and unique perspective resonates deeply with readers seeking practical, actionable advice to improve their lives.
A.L. Childers’s books stand out because they offer more than just information—they provide a compassionate, relatable voice that empowers readers to take control of their health, happiness, and future. Each book is crafted with care, backed by research, and filled with personal insights, making complex topics easy to understand and apply. Whether you’re struggling with a chronic condition or simply seeking better health and vitality, her books are designed to guide you toward transformation and wellness.
Why should you purchase one of her books? Because they are not only educational, but also transformative. With A.L. Childers’s guidance, you can heal your body, strengthen your immune system, and rediscover your energy—all while feeling supported by someone who truly understands the journey.
Take action now—explore A.L. Childers’s collection and start your journey to better health and wellness today!
If you’ve enjoyed my writings and would like to support future content, you can help keep my blog and books alive with a donation. Whether it’s $1 or any amount you feel inspired to give, your support means the world to me. You can donate through Venmo at @Audrey-Childers-4 or via Cash App at $abbigailChilders. Every contribution helps fuel the passion behind my work, and I truly appreciate your generosity! Thank you for being part of this journey.
Get ready to dive into the vibrant and eclectic world of Audrey Childers, the author who’s written something for absolutely everyone! With over 200 books under her belt—ranging from playful coloring books to thought-provoking self-help guides, spellbinding fantasy novels, and everything in between—Audrey has crafted a literary collection for every age and stage of life.
As the creative force behind TheHypothyroidismChick.com, she’s also a passionate advocate for health and wellness, sharing her own tips and insights on living well with hypothyroidism. But Audrey doesn’t stop there. She’s a mom, a voice for optimal human health, a blogger, a freelance journalist, and an entrepreneur who’s spent over a decade fine-tuning her craft in research and editorial writing.
Want to uncover her latest bestsellers? Some of her most popular works include “A Survivor’s Cookbook Guide to Kicking Hypothyroidism Booty,” “Reset Your Thyroid,” and the biting satire, “The Plague of Overeducated Dumb People.” But there’s so much more! Click the many links “About the Author” to check out her incredible range of books—you won’t regret it!
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Disclaimer
The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health. The highlighted links are affiliate links in my blogs.
This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy. | thehypothyroidismchick
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