Born into a home marked by profound dysfunction, Sandra Jarvis struggles to overcome the messages ingrained throughout her childhood. I’m not worthy. I’m not loveable. I’ll never be enough. The physical, sexual, and spiritual abuse of her childhood, all hidden behind the carefully crafted façade of a model Mormon home, leave her wondering if there really is a God—and if so, what must she do to prove her worth?
She marries young, hoping to escape the misery of her childhood, only to discover that you can’t run from the effects of abuse. Bitterness and anger increase as she’s faced with seemingly endless trials—postpartum depression, a porn-addicted spouse, an LGBTQ child, a cancer diagnosis, overwhelming debt, and fear—constant fear for what the future might hold. With all of this overshadowing her world, Sandra thinks things can’t get any worse.
Then a tragic accident nearly severs her right hand. Although the damage to her hand brings an entirely new set of problems, it also gives Sandra an unexpected opportunity to not only recover, but to begin severing herself from the lies that have always ruled her life, the ones she’s told herself to prove she’s not enough. Only then does she discover that life is just what you make of it, that adversity can make you stronger, and that perhaps, things are exactly the way they are supposed to be.
Severed: a Memoir of Hope and Healing is the powerful true story of finding hope and purpose amid life’s challenges. It provides proof that even in life’s darkest moments, peace is available, perhaps even plentiful.
Sandra Jarvis is totally amazing. Not only has she gone through horrific trials from childhood to married adult, but she has been an inspiring speaker and healer for many women. The story she tells of her own life and how she was able to deal with the tragic accident of almost losing her hand is incredible. As a writer and violin player, this would have been the straw that broke the camel's back, but a doctor saw that he could save her hand and with this journey, Sandra began to heal physically and emotionally.
This is a must read for anyone who has been abused. Inspiring for anyone with so many trials they want to give up. I thank Sandra for writing this book and sharing her story.
What a journey. Sandra hit every point of fear and weakness I have faced and some I can not even imagine. We each have our own life journey, however, Sandra put her adventure in such a way that I can relate my life to hers (though mine has been completely different). The one truth I wish I could help,others with is the realization that we are each enough by ourselves. We only need God on our side—and He is.
This memoir is so well written I felt like I was with her in every step of her journey. Sandra’s story will inspire every reader. You will laugh, cry, smile, cry again and be left wanting more after every chapter. I couldn’t put this down.