A life set free, now spent helping others find the same freedom.

This isn’t a story about how strong I became. It’s a story about what Jesus has done, and what He is still doing.

Her story

Where it all began.

For years, my life was shaped by things I never chose and choices I wish I hadn’t made. Trauma, addiction, shame, and the quiet belief that I was too broken to be loved.

2008

I was incarcerated in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison, at what felt like the lowest point of my life. There was a Life Recovery Bible sitting on the bunk next to mine. When I saw it, a thought settled over me: I could keep running away from God, or I could run to Him. I asked to borrow that Bible. And in that unlikeliest of places, I met Jesus in a way that rearranged everything.

I didn’t have to go to prison to be in a prison. But while I was in prison, I discovered Freedom Within.

My story doesn’t end in pain. It turns, through healing, through grace, through the slow and faithful work of God, toward freedom. I’m not the hero of it. He is. And I’m forever grateful for His mercy.

What she does now

Living it out, one day at a time.

Today, Melody is the founder of Freedom Within and the author of Freedom to Fly: From Persecution to Prosperity, a Life Story of Salvation. She’s a speaker, writer, and Bible teacher based in Louisiana, and her mission is simple: to help people experience the freedom found through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

She helps lead a prison ministry group through Good Company, Inc., returning to the very kind of place where her own freedom began.

Melody is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She lives in Louisiana with her husband, Robert, right next door to her daughter, Bethany. She’s forever grateful to God for His great mercy and grace.

Melody teaching Lessons from Esther on stage at a church event

Teaching Lessons from Esther, on stage in Louisiana

Off the stage

A few of her joys.

Jail ministry <Time with family Fishing with her siblings CrossFit Grandbabies Early mornings & coffee Sunrises Studying Scripture

What she believes

The truths she keeps coming back to.

God meets us right where we are.

Nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Brokenness is never the end of the story.

Healing is possible.

Freedom is found in Jesus.

Small steps of faith matter.

Joy is part of healing.

We were never meant to do this alone.

From Melody

If any part of my story sounds like yours, let’s connect.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to take the next small step.

Let’s Connect