Hello everyone! My name is Jesus and I am a new Community Manager here ACEs Connection. It just so happens that this is one of the groups that I get to work closest with and I wanted to say HAPPY HOLIDAYS before I go on winter break until early January.

I'm currently finishing my Masters in Public Health at San Francisco State University and I'm really lucky to have this opportunity to work with ACEs Connection and spread the word about trauma informed care and practices. As Christmas approaches I flashback to my childhood when I experienced my own adverse childhood experiences. The stress of the holidays mixed with familial tension and there was typically an eruption of domestic violence between my parents on what were to be sacred nights.

But my childhood experiences don't prevent me from enjoying the season anymore. As I've grown older I have been able to deal with my ACEs and have become a strong and resilient person. I also look forward to seeing my family and friends during the festivities. I hope I can serve as an example of someone with a very high ACE score can still lead a healthy and happy life.

I'll leave everyone with this short message but I hope you enjoy your holidays and I'll see you next year!