Rescue The Fosters: ABUSED IN THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM w/ Special Guest - Alexandra Smith

My name is Alexandra Smith. I am 30 years old. I was in the foster care system in Fort Smith Arkansas Sebastian County from the age of 7 to 18 years old. Was severely medicated, institutionalized, and abused in the system. Aged out of the system and went back to my bio mother. Had several hospitalizations including in state facilities until 20. Ended up battling with chronic homeless due to mental illness and domestic violence. Had a baby at 26. Suffered from Post Partum Depression after, DCS in St. Joseph County South Bend Indiana. Son was removed at 4 days. I was asking for help with my mental illness and homelessness. Got an apartment 4 months in the Chins case. Completed classes and was involved in my own services. Reunification was impossible. There was a lot of difficulty with DCS. Perjured testimony, falsified court orders, intimidation of witnesses and advocates. I went to higher ups, State Reps, Senators, Local DCS managers, DCS liaison Angel Owens in the governor office, regional manager Kathryn Stephenson, and even reached out to the DCS director at the time Terry Stigdon and her assistant Kelly. No luck. Eventually I had a breakdown. Left everything I had and spiraled. Once I tried to pick it up, it was too late. I lost my rights. My son was gone. And ready to be adopted. I am now in therapy. Working. Going to school and trying to live life as best as I can.