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Healing Neen: One Woman's Path to Salvation from Trauma and Addiction
" Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… " – Joshua 24:15 (NIV)
It is almost unfathomable to believe that just nine years ago Neen was in prison—a place as familiar to her as the streets she lived on. In just 15 years, she had been arrested 83 times with 66 convictions. Neen had–and lost–four children, she was a crack addict, a prostitute, and desperately lost. But as long as she had breath, she would still have hope. One day, after 19 years hustling on the streets of Annapolis, Neen's crumb of hope turned into a seed of trust.
" Then I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten… " – Joel 2:25 (NASV)
Healing Neen isn't just another story about victims and survivors or recovery and redemption; ultimately, it is a story of Good News and a testament to God's grace and presence. It is the story of a woman's path to salvation and a propitious glimpse into the potential buried deep within some of society's most vulnerable people.
" See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father, who is in heaven. " – Matthew 18:10 (ESV)
But this story isn't just about Neen; it's about the value of human life, the depth of suffering, and the heights of grace. It is a convincing cri de Coeur for better practices in the way we treat and counsel those caught in the cycles of trauma, addiction, and serial incarceration. Neen brings us face-to-face with the ubiquitous corruption, neglect, and abuse in some of the systems meant to safeguard at-risk women and children, yet she leaves us with hope that things can change for the better.
Today, Tonier Cain's calling is to help save thousands of other "Neens" across the nation. She is a leading advocate for trauma-informed care in prisons and mental health facilities. She is a champion for examining and improving the way we help one another toward redemption, and she is the voice of compassion and promise for so many still living on the fringe who need to hear, " where there's breath, there's hope."
It is almost unfathomable to believe that just nine years ago Neen was in prison—a place as familiar to her as the streets she lived on. In just 15 years, she had been arrested 83 times with 66 convictions. Neen had–and lost–four children, she was a crack addict, a prostitute, and desperately lost. But as long as she had breath, she would still have hope. One day, after 19 years hustling on the streets of Annapolis, Neen's crumb of hope turned into a seed of trust.
" Then I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten… " – Joel 2:25 (NASV)
Healing Neen isn't just another story about victims and survivors or recovery and redemption; ultimately, it is a story of Good News and a testament to God's grace and presence. It is the story of a woman's path to salvation and a propitious glimpse into the potential buried deep within some of society's most vulnerable people.
" See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father, who is in heaven. " – Matthew 18:10 (ESV)
But this story isn't just about Neen; it's about the value of human life, the depth of suffering, and the heights of grace. It is a convincing cri de Coeur for better practices in the way we treat and counsel those caught in the cycles of trauma, addiction, and serial incarceration. Neen brings us face-to-face with the ubiquitous corruption, neglect, and abuse in some of the systems meant to safeguard at-risk women and children, yet she leaves us with hope that things can change for the better.
Today, Tonier Cain's calling is to help save thousands of other "Neens" across the nation. She is a leading advocate for trauma-informed care in prisons and mental health facilities. She is a champion for examining and improving the way we help one another toward redemption, and she is the voice of compassion and promise for so many still living on the fringe who need to hear, " where there's breath, there's hope."
240 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2014
21 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Tonier Cain
3 books6 followersFor two decades, Neen hustled on the streets of Annapolis, Maryland, desperately feeding an insatiable crack addiction and racking up 83 arrests along the way. Rapes and beatings were a routine part of life; home was underneath a bridge or inside the locked cage of a prison. In 2004, pregnant and incarcerated for violation of parole, she was provided the opportunity to go to a community trauma, mental health and addictions program.
Feeling safe for the first time in her life, Neen confronted the haunting childhood memories that she tried to numb with drugs: filth and chronic hunger, sexual assaults by neighborhood men, routine physical and mental abuse dished out by her drunken mother. Realizing for the first time that she had been a victim, she began to heal and reclaim power over her life, embarking on a remarkable “upward spiral,” that has no limit. Today, she works for the National Center for Trauma-Informed Care, dedicating her life to being a voice for those still lost and still silent. Traveling the country to give speeches and work one on one with women in prisons and hospitals, Neen continues to transform her own life while helping others to embrace her motto “where there’s breath, there’s hope.”
Feeling safe for the first time in her life, Neen confronted the haunting childhood memories that she tried to numb with drugs: filth and chronic hunger, sexual assaults by neighborhood men, routine physical and mental abuse dished out by her drunken mother. Realizing for the first time that she had been a victim, she began to heal and reclaim power over her life, embarking on a remarkable “upward spiral,” that has no limit. Today, she works for the National Center for Trauma-Informed Care, dedicating her life to being a voice for those still lost and still silent. Traveling the country to give speeches and work one on one with women in prisons and hospitals, Neen continues to transform her own life while helping others to embrace her motto “where there’s breath, there’s hope.”
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 27, 2024
From the beginning I was swept into the story not only because I wanted to know how Neen, who had been a crack addict, prostitute and inmate, turned her life around--that would have been enough to draw me in--but because her voice is so warm and authentic that I felt as if I were hearing the story of a dear friend.
Healing Neen takes the reader back to Neen’s childhood, a life of neglect, emotional, physical and sexual abuse. She doesn’t mince words and it’s tough to read. It may be triggering for some who have suffered similar kinds of abuse. If that is the case, I would recommend skipping to the last chapters and reading about her recovery because she offers so much hope. My heart broke for Neen over and over as her trust was betrayed time and again.
Then after so many heart-wrenching experiences, her life takes a turn. This too is thoroughly explained. Through Christ and trauma therapy she was able to heal. This part of the book is truly beautiful and inspirational. I agree completely with her thoughts about trauma therapy, and God.
In one sentence: a heart-breaking story of pain followed by healing and triumph: highly recommended.
Note: I received a pre-release copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Healing Neen takes the reader back to Neen’s childhood, a life of neglect, emotional, physical and sexual abuse. She doesn’t mince words and it’s tough to read. It may be triggering for some who have suffered similar kinds of abuse. If that is the case, I would recommend skipping to the last chapters and reading about her recovery because she offers so much hope. My heart broke for Neen over and over as her trust was betrayed time and again.
Then after so many heart-wrenching experiences, her life takes a turn. This too is thoroughly explained. Through Christ and trauma therapy she was able to heal. This part of the book is truly beautiful and inspirational. I agree completely with her thoughts about trauma therapy, and God.
In one sentence: a heart-breaking story of pain followed by healing and triumph: highly recommended.
Note: I received a pre-release copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2021
Trauma Informed Care is real…
Teaching this subject is one thing I’ve been doing at work, but reading the background of Ms. Cain’s story makes it even more impactful. Her message is real, raw, and a reality check for anyone who has experienced any ACE (Adult Child Experience ). She is an example of the fact that despite the fact each moment will hand you it’s experience the meaning of how you interpret those experiences unique unto themselves.Trauma is real, it’s not just in your head, the mind body connection of events leave an effect, that leave affects on your health, and your life. Her message is one that should be shared far and wide. When the student is ready the teacher will appear. Ask better questions and you may arrive at better answers. Healthy healing is available, if and when you are ready to embrace the moment that life offers you. Find a ACE informed facilitator and let the healing begin…
Teaching this subject is one thing I’ve been doing at work, but reading the background of Ms. Cain’s story makes it even more impactful. Her message is real, raw, and a reality check for anyone who has experienced any ACE (Adult Child Experience ). She is an example of the fact that despite the fact each moment will hand you it’s experience the meaning of how you interpret those experiences unique unto themselves.Trauma is real, it’s not just in your head, the mind body connection of events leave an effect, that leave affects on your health, and your life. Her message is one that should be shared far and wide. When the student is ready the teacher will appear. Ask better questions and you may arrive at better answers. Healthy healing is available, if and when you are ready to embrace the moment that life offers you. Find a ACE informed facilitator and let the healing begin…
August 11, 2021
I was seeking for revelation to some questions as a Counselor major and I got answers.
Praise the Lord! His Grace and Love endures forever. The story of Tonier is by far one of the most profound therapeutic and fully inspiring true story I ever read so far. I have been seeking and asking God what or why, and how a person like me, a Counselor and Compassionate at heart should do or could do to understand and help those who have suffered such level of pain. Healing Neen has provided the answers. For the good "listener," reading this book will speak more than just a story. This was a face to face with truth and the effects of Trauma. It was also the provider of the solution. I am thankful for this book and thankful for Tonier. God is good indeed!!
Praise the Lord! His Grace and Love endures forever. The story of Tonier is by far one of the most profound therapeutic and fully inspiring true story I ever read so far. I have been seeking and asking God what or why, and how a person like me, a Counselor and Compassionate at heart should do or could do to understand and help those who have suffered such level of pain. Healing Neen has provided the answers. For the good "listener," reading this book will speak more than just a story. This was a face to face with truth and the effects of Trauma. It was also the provider of the solution. I am thankful for this book and thankful for Tonier. God is good indeed!!
April 21, 2019
I work in the trauma field and i have distanced myself from reading books about the things I deal with on a daily bases. I am glad that I took a break from this hiatus and picked up the book. From the beginning it captured my attention. Couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. I only wished there was more information about trauma informed care. This is a great way to open people’s eyes to what is truly going on in the world. I am so glad the Ms. Cain was able to find the courage and share her story. I hope this book helps other to the the strength to do the same.
December 17, 2020
This book was a recommended read during a trauma training I had to do via work. I loved the depth and vulnerability of this book & it was truly an inspiring story. I was a little disappointed that the end of it was rooted in “discovering Jesus” as there are so many paths to recovery that don’t involve religion, however, this is clearly a big part of the authors experience and her truth and didn’t detract from the book itself. Overall, I really loved reading this and would definitely recommend it personally.
April 16, 2018
Must Read!
Tonier Cain tells her life story in a clear and honest manner. Her story will make you cry while also reminding you that God is faithful.
Tonier Cain tells her life story in a clear and honest manner. Her story will make you cry while also reminding you that God is faithful.
August 4, 2018
Good book!
I really enjoyed this book. I love hearing stories of people transforming their life around after trauma. It is proof that anything is possible!
I really enjoyed this book. I love hearing stories of people transforming their life around after trauma. It is proof that anything is possible!
December 7, 2021
Excellent and Inspiring!!!
Soulful and honest!!! Loved the conference,Tulare CA. Soul bearing, open, honest approach. Thank you Tinker for your prayers. God Bless!!!
Soulful and honest!!! Loved the conference,Tulare CA. Soul bearing, open, honest approach. Thank you Tinker for your prayers. God Bless!!!
September 27, 2014
Disclaimer: I won this book as an ARC; it did not affect my review.
I could not put this book down! I started it late on Friday night, read til 2:30 a.m., and woke up to finish it! Nicely done, Ms. Cain, nicely done.
Healing Neen is the powerful story of one woman's path through the horrors of childhood abuse, addiction, abandonment, poverty and homelessness to overcoming, success and victory through Jesus. This gritty recounting gives the reader hope that all things are possible in Christ!
Even through the raw telling of her story, Ms. Cain does not become overly graphic. She keeps the rating PG-13, although there is one instance of swearing in the book.
The only reason I gave the book 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because the writing style itself was weak. It was repetitive in places and could have benefited from much stronger content editing, which would have pulled the reader into the story even more. As a writer, editor and proofreader myself, there were very few grammatical errors. However, she needed to vary the sentence structure to truly make this book stand out.
Even so, I want to know more! I want an update! What happened to Keith? I see she still has his last name. What is her new ministry? What does trauma therapy involve? And I want updates on her children! After visiting her website, Toniercain.com, I read of the many awards she has received.
Ms. Cain, I hope you write a follow up book. Let me know if you need a content editor! Thank you for being such an inspiration - the very best to you!
I could not put this book down! I started it late on Friday night, read til 2:30 a.m., and woke up to finish it! Nicely done, Ms. Cain, nicely done.
Healing Neen is the powerful story of one woman's path through the horrors of childhood abuse, addiction, abandonment, poverty and homelessness to overcoming, success and victory through Jesus. This gritty recounting gives the reader hope that all things are possible in Christ!
Even through the raw telling of her story, Ms. Cain does not become overly graphic. She keeps the rating PG-13, although there is one instance of swearing in the book.
The only reason I gave the book 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because the writing style itself was weak. It was repetitive in places and could have benefited from much stronger content editing, which would have pulled the reader into the story even more. As a writer, editor and proofreader myself, there were very few grammatical errors. However, she needed to vary the sentence structure to truly make this book stand out.
Even so, I want to know more! I want an update! What happened to Keith? I see she still has his last name. What is her new ministry? What does trauma therapy involve? And I want updates on her children! After visiting her website, Toniercain.com, I read of the many awards she has received.
Ms. Cain, I hope you write a follow up book. Let me know if you need a content editor! Thank you for being such an inspiration - the very best to you!
Read
April 21, 2015Healing Neen by Tonier Cain is a very inspirational, insightful memoir of someone who survived a lifetime of abuse, trauma, neglect, alcohol and drugs, and through the grace of God was able to conquer all the demons in her life. Tonier Cain lived a life of pure Hell from the moment she was born. It is difficult to imagine the life that she had to face on a daily basis. The saddest thing to me is that no one bothered to try to help this child or to find out what was going on in her life, and it did not get any better for the adult Tonier. We have all heard the expression "fell through the cracks," and Tonier certainly fell through the cracks in the system, It is hard to imagine growing up feeling totally unloved or cared for, but Tonier Cain faced this existence on a daily basis. The book opens one's eyes to the failure of our society to help those who are truly in need of help. Tonier's story is one that is guaranteed to inspire the reader and awaken him or her to some of the harsh realities of life. You will come away from reading it with an awestruck admiration of Tonier Cain, a lady who survived a horrible existence, overcame the events that should have destroyed her, and has gone on to help many people with her inspiring story of hope.
September 11, 2014
Where do I begin....this book is so powerful and poignant. It shows how coming from abuse and trauma does not seal your fate! Tonier'is life is a testimony to anyone who has a substance abuse issue/trauma history. Many of us are traumatized and don't even know it. As mental health clinician this book has helped me acknowledge trauma in my clients and how to better assist them work through their trauma to improve their lives. Trauma is real. I read this book in 4 hours. It was that good!
October 19, 2014
Healing Neen was a hard book to put down. Tonier tells the raw true story of her life and testimony. I highly recommend this book to all those in the field of social work/human services and mental health. This book will teach you compassion, humility and the power of Jesus Christ.
January 11, 2016
Fascinating story that is sad and hopeful
It's difficult to think about all of the other people who are affected by trauma. It was very sad to read about all of the terrible experiences she had, but I am glad she found healing.
It's difficult to think about all of the other people who are affected by trauma. It was very sad to read about all of the terrible experiences she had, but I am glad she found healing.
Want to read
August 17, 2014I am looking forward to receiving this book and reading it! I was really excited to learn that I had won it. Will update this review after I've read it!
September 4, 2014
A true testament of God's love and the power of seeking his help. Through trails and tribulations, God was always by Tonier's side.
Want to read
October 24, 2014I won this book as part of the Goodreads First-Read program.
September 15, 2014
This book was a beautiful memoir about perseverance in the hardest times. It was a truly inspiring and emotional book. Recommended to all.
ARC winner
ARC winner
December 30, 2014
Heartbreaking, Inspiring, Touching & Deep! Real & Honest! I Loved It!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews