# @hopewdm on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DYUazk2RI29
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/65531640-hopewdm-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/14fe602a2c.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-05-14T12:27:22.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** HOPE (@HopeWDM) — https://gondola.cc/HopeWDM

## Caption

I grew up around Hope, but I wasn’t a regular attender. My family came for holidays and occasionally on weekends, but growing up as a competitive dancer made weekly worship a challenge. In high school, that began to change when a friend invited me to volunteer at Vacation Bible School. Two years later, my mom, sister, and I were baptized. Making that decision marked a shift—it was when I began to take God seriously. I also started asking some big questions, especially about my mental health.
 
For as long as I can remember, I have lived with severe anxiety and panic disorder. Since elementary school, I had been in and out of therapists’ offices and doctor appointments, yet I never fully understood what was happening. In 2017, I went to college and returned home after two months. While away, my panic attacks made me physically sick, and I stopped eating. I convinced myself that if I didn’t eat, I couldn’t get sick. It was during this season that I learned how deeply I needed God’s grace, even when I couldn’t feel his peace.
 
Since then, I’ve found myself back in that cycle a handful of times. Each time, the only way out has been leaning into the support God placed around me. Through therapy, exploring medications, and the love of my family, God has carried me to where I am.
 
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
 
In 2020, I began an internship with the Children’s Ministry at Hope. A few weeks in, I was invited to join the team after graduating. During my time as a HopeKids coordinator, I’ve built meaningful relationships with my colleagues and the families and children we serve. 
 
By sharing my story, I am letting more people into my circle because I know God works through community. To those who have been there for me—thank you. And to anyone who is struggling—I am here. You are not weak, and you are not alone. Sometimes, having just one person who understands—and knowing God is walking with you—can make a world of difference.
 
“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
 
Hannah W.
#HopeWDMStories

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hopewdmstories

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