Heather is a member of one of Steve and Samantha’s four churches, which they now pastor in central Illinois. Her husband of three years, Bryant, is in the U.S. Navy and stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. They are looking forward to November 2010 when he will finally be done with his military service and gets to come home for good.

Heather was a victim of clergy abuse in 2006. She did not keep quiet, and the abuser moved away so he didn’t have to face the situation. When asked about the abuse, Heather said, “I never had any closure until I met my new pastor, Steve, and his wonderful wife, Samantha. Our first random meeting lasted until 2 a.m., when I was surprised to learn they specialize in helping people in my exact situation. I finally got to tell my story and realized there was hope. Since then, I have become an avid volunteer for The Hope of Survivors and have grown emotionally and spiritually thanks to Steve and Samantha’s love and guidance.”