Kristen Jane Anderson

Kristen Jane Anderson's life took a turn for the worse when she went through a series of personal tragedies, including the passing of her grandmother, the loss of three friends, having a friend diagnosed with cancer, and experiencing sexual assault from a friend. Consumed by pain and despair, she attempted suicide at the age of 17 by laying on a set of railroad tracks. She was run over by 33 freight train cars at 55 mph, which resulted in the loss of both of her legs and 8 pints of blood. Despite her physical injuries, she survived this suicide attempt.

Anderson grappled with depression for another three years following the incident. However, after finding solace in the teachings of Christ and joining a supportive church community, she experienced a transformation. Her newfound faith not only helped her overcome her depression but also aided her in discontinuing the use of her medications. As she found her strength, joy, peace, and purpose in life, she was called to start Reaching You Ministries.

Anderson, a dedicated advocate for mental health, particularly in areas of depression, suicide, and recovery, founded Reaching You Ministries to assist individuals struggling with these issues. The organization came into existence in December 2004, soon after Anderson was invited to share her transformative journey with the high school youth group in her church. The establishment of Reaching You Ministries signified the beginning of her role as a highly sought-after speaker, sharing her powerful story with audiences globally. This initiative quickly expanded beyond Anderson's expectations, impacting many lives.

In May 2010, Anderson penned her experiences in her bestselling book "Life, In Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice." The publication of her book has not only enlarged the reach of Reaching You Ministries but has also highlighted her as a leading voice in mental health advocacy. Her compelling story and passionate advocacy work continue to inspire and motivate audiences worldwide, making her not just a wife and a mother but also a beacon of hope.