Where Do Taxpayer Dollars Really Go? A Look Inside the Prison System

When we pay taxes, a portion of those funds is allocated to maintaining and operating the prison system. In theory, this money is meant to ensure that inmates are housed in secure facilities, receive proper care, and have access to programs that aid in their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society. However, the reality of where this money goes and how it's used can be quite different, often raising serious ethical and humanitarian concerns.

The Ideal vs. The Reality

Taxpayers fund a broad range of expenses within the prison system, including:

• Facility Operations: Maintaining the buildings, utilities, and security systems.
• Staff Salaries: Paying correctional officers, healthcare staff, and administrative personnel.
• Inmate Care: Providing food, healthcare, clothing, and hygiene products.
• Rehabilitation Programs: Offering education, vocational training, and substance abuse programs.
• Security: Ensuring the facility is safe and secure for both staff and inmates.

However, despite this seemingly comprehensive list, the reality of what inmates experience can be shockingly different, particularly in terms of the quality of food, healthcare, basic utilities, and overall human dignity.

The Food Crisis: "Not for Human Consumption"

One of the most alarming aspects of the prison system is the quality of food provided to inmates. Despite taxpayer dollars supposedly covering the cost of proper nutrition, many inmates are fed food that is substandard at best and dangerous at worst. There have been reports of food boxes labeled "NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION" being served to inmates. This raises the question: Where is the money meant for food going if inmates are being served meals that aren't even fit for animals, let alone humans?

This type of food can lead to a range of health issues, from malnutrition to gastrointestinal problems, which can exacerbate existing medical conditions. When taxpayers are under the impression that their money is going toward providing basic human necessities, it is appalling to discover that this is the reality in many prisons.

Healthcare: A Costly and Inadequate Service

Another major area where taxpayer dollars are supposed to be allocated is inmate healthcare. In theory, this includes regular medical check-ups, necessary treatments, and access to medications. However, inmates are often charged for Health Needs Requests (HNRs) – a fee they must pay simply to request medical attention. This fee can be a significant burden, especially since most inmates earn only a few cents per hour for their labor.

In addition to HNR fees, inmates frequently have to pay for medication dosages and refills. This means that even if an inmate is prescribed medication for a chronic condition, they may not be able to afford the necessary refills, leading to unmanaged health issues. This practice not only undermines the concept of taxpayer-funded healthcare but also puts inmates at serious risk, turning simple medical issues into potentially life-threatening conditions.

Hidden Costs: Charging Inmates for Basic Utilities and Living Expenses

Adding to the list of questionable practices is the fact that some prisons charge inmates for basic "utilities" and monthly living expenses. This means that, depending on their dorm assignments, inmates may be billed for things like electricity, water, and even the cost of their own incarceration. These charges are often deducted directly from their commissary accounts or any wages they earn through prison labor, which are already meager.

This practice raises serious ethical questions. Taxpayers are under the impression that their contributions are covering these basic expenses, yet inmates are being charged for the cost of their confinement on top of that. It creates an additional financial burden for inmates and their families, many of whom are already struggling. It also perpetuates a system where the most vulnerable are being nickel-and-dimed for the very basics of human survival.

Rehabilitation and Reentry: Underfunded and Ineffective

While taxpayers may believe their money is being used to fund effective rehabilitation and reentry programs, the reality is often a lack of meaningful resources. Educational programs are underfunded, vocational training is limited, and mental health and substance abuse programs are stretched thin. When inmates do not receive adequate support to address the root causes of their criminal behavior, they are more likely to re-offend and end up back in the system, creating a costly cycle of recidivism.

The Hidden Costs and the Human Toll

It’s crucial to ask where taxpayer money is going if inmates are still being fed substandard food, charged for basic healthcare, and even billed for utilities and living expenses. Some of this funding may be lost to administrative overhead, mismanagement, or even profit-driven motives in privately-run facilities. Meanwhile, the human cost is enormous. Inmates are not given the basic care and dignity they deserve, which not only affects them but also impacts their families and communities.

Conclusion: A Call for Transparency and Reform

Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going, especially when it comes to the treatment of individuals within the prison system. It is time to demand transparency, accountability, and reform. Inmates should receive food that meets basic nutritional standards, healthcare that is accessible and affordable, and should not be charged for basic living necessities while incarcerated. The goal should be a system that not only punishes but also rehabilitates, giving inmates a real chance at reintegration and reducing the cycle of re-offense.

A Word of Encouragement

In times of injustice, it's essential to remember the power of advocacy and compassion. As the Bible reminds us in Hebrews 13:3:

"Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering."

We are called to shine a light on these issues and seek change for the betterment of all.

Hashtags:

#PrisonReform #JusticeForInmates #TaxpayerTransparency #PrisonSystem #InmateRights #CriminalJusticeReform #EndPrisonAbuse #HumanRights #PrisonAdvocacy #CompassionInAction

Waiting: The True Test of Love and Patience

As of today, the countdown stands at 5 years, 1 month, 16 days, and 10 hours until my husband comes home. Some days, that time feels like an eternity—like the wait will never end. Yet, I hold on to the belief that this waiting, this space between now and our reunion, is a testament to the true love we share.

The image above says it all: "Waiting is a sign of true love and patience. Anyone can say 'I love you,' but not everyone can wait and prove it's true." I can’t think of a more fitting quote for this chapter of our lives.

We live in a world that often demands instant gratification, but love—real, unconditional love—doesn’t operate on a timeline of convenience. It requires patience, endurance, and the faith to believe that even in the longest, hardest days, the bond between us is only growing stronger.

The Reality of the Countdown

It’s no secret that my husband and I have a long road ahead. Over 5 years might seem like a countdown that stretches into forever. Some days, it feels that way. Days where the minutes crawl, where the weight of missing him feels heavier than I can bear, and where I wonder how I’ll make it through another day without him by my side.

But there are other days—days filled with hope, love, and even joy. These are the days when I feel connected to him despite the distance, when a letter or a phone call brings us closer, and when I’m reminded of how strong we are together, even when we’re apart.

Love isn’t just the moments when things are easy. It’s in the waiting, the sacrifice, the patience, and the faith that one day, we’ll be together again. That love we share? It’s stronger than the walls that separate us. It’s deeper than the miles between us.

Why Waiting Is a True Test

When you’re faced with years of waiting, the depth of your love is truly tested. Anyone can say the words, “I love you,” but proving that love over time—that’s something entirely different. It’s about holding onto hope on the hard days. It’s about choosing to see the light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far away it seems. And it’s about believing in your connection, knowing that this time apart will one day be a memory in the past.

For my husband and me, the waiting is just one part of our story. It’s a chapter that’s teaching us patience, resilience, and trust. Every day we get through, every milestone we pass, is proof of how deeply we love one another.

Finding Strength in the Wait

On the days when the wait feels unbearable, I remind myself of why we’re doing this—why we’re waiting. I’m waiting because my love for him is greater than any temporary hardship. I’m waiting because our future together is worth the sacrifice we’re making now. And I’m waiting because love, real love, is about enduring through the hardest times and coming out stronger on the other side.

There are many people in our lives who don’t understand. They wonder why I stay, why I continue to count down the days and wait. But they don’t understand the strength of the bond my husband and I share. They don’t understand the love that drives me to keep going, day after day, no matter how long the wait.

Final Thoughts

Waiting isn’t easy. There are days when it feels like forever, and there are nights when the loneliness creeps in. But love—real love—requires patience and faith. It requires believing that the wait will be worth it, that the time apart is just a small part of a much bigger picture.

So, here I am, counting down the days. 5 years, 1 month, 16 days, and 10 hours until we’re together again. Some days it feels like a lifetime, but I know that one day, we’ll look back at this time and realize it was just a chapter in the greater story of us.

📖 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4

#WaitingForLove #PrisonWifeLife #TrueLove #PatienceAndFaith #LoveIsPatient #CountdownToFreedom #EppersonEmpowerment #HopeAndHealing #StrengthInWaiting #ProveItsTrue #TogetherAgainSomeday

Urgent Concerns Regarding Corruption and Negligence in the Prison System

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to express my deep concerns about the ongoing corruption and negligence within the prison system, specifically regarding the treatment of my husband, Ryan Epperson, who is currently serving a 7-year sentence for drug-related offenses. Ryan is battling addiction and should be receiving the help and rehabilitation he desperately needs, not being placed in environments that further perpetuate the cycle of substance abuse and institutionalization.

Prior to Ryan’s sentencing, while he was still in county jail, I worked diligently with Spectrum and Momentum to get him diagnosed and approved for inpatient rehab. This program would have given Ryan the chance to get clean and receive the treatment he so desperately needs. However, despite all of these efforts, the prosecutor refused to allow this option, even denying any bond reduction or paper bond that would have permitted Ryan to attend rehab. It is beyond comprehension that in all of Ryan’s drug-related offenses, he has never once been offered drug diversion programs—only prison time on yards filled with drugs that are frequently brought in by staff.

Instead of receiving the proper treatment for his addiction, Ryan was sent to Red Rock Correctional Center, a prison riddled with Fentanyl, the very substance that has plagued his life for years. How is it acceptable that an institution meant for "correction" is teeming with the very drugs that inmates like Ryan are trying to escape from? This system is setting him up for failure.

After just one month, Ryan was transferred to another facility (La Palma), where he was greeted by a correctional officer telling the new inmates, "You're in the trenches now. Welcome to La Pillma." Such a statement is indicative of the toxic and dismissive attitude that pervades these facilities, further proving that these environments are designed not for rehabilitation, but for institutionalizing inmates even more deeply.

How is this acceptable? Rather than offering Ryan the help he needs to break free from addiction, he is being pushed further into environments filled with temptation and danger, where drugs are readily available, often brought in by the very people meant to oversee his care and safety. Are they trying to make him even more institutionalized than he already is?

To make matters worse, while Ryan is fighting all of this, I am also facing my own battle. As a former correctional officer, I am now facing felony charges stemming from Ryan’s relapse and the possession of substances found in our car. Ryan has taken full responsibility for this, yet the county is using my former profession as a correctional officer to sensationalize the case against me. Despite my innocence, they seem determined to make an example out of me for the sake of clout.

As a result, I am being forced into homelessness, unable to secure employment, with my disabilities worsening to the point that I am now pending permanent disability. I have no income whatsoever, and I am left to fight not only for my own freedom but for my survival. I am battling the very real threat of homelessness, while living with agoraphobia—conditions that make it nearly impossible to survive alone. All of this is happening because my husband, who is a drug user, is being further institutionalized by a system that claims to rehabilitate but instead perpetuates the cycle of destruction.

This is not justice. This is not rehabilitation. The system is failing Ryan, it is failing me, and it is failing countless others in similar positions. It is incomprehensible that rather than offering drug diversion, support, and rehabilitation, the solution continues to be prison yards overflowing with the very substances that destroy lives.

I implore you to investigate this situation and take the necessary steps to ensure that the prison system is held accountable for its actions. Ryan deserves a real chance at recovery, and I deserve a fair chance to clear my name without being used as a pawn in a system desperate for "wins."

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Much appreciation,

DeAnna Epperson, MFP, CCBLC, NLP Prac, CMH, CCIC, EMDRT, CCMP, SLC

Forensic Psychologist, Certified Cognitive Behavioral Life Coach, Neuro-Linguistic Programming Practitioner, Certified Master of Hypnosis, Certified in Child Crisis Intervention, EMDR Therapist, Certified Conflict Mgmt Professional, Sobriety Life Coach

https://linktr.ee/EppersonEmpowerment

"A Transfer Gone Wrong: Fighting for Inmate Rights After My Husband’s Inhumane Treatment"

After weeks of waiting in uncertainty and fear, my husband was finally transferred to a new yard. This transfer followed an attack by another inmate that left him injured and in need of medical attention. Instead of receiving the care and support he should have in the days leading up to his transfer, his treatment worsened. What followed was a situation that sheds light on the broken system of inmate care and a gross violation of his rights as a human being.

The Night of His Arrival: Inhumane Treatment

When my husband and his cellmate arrived at the new yard, they immediately asked the prison staff for mats to sleep on—something that seems like a basic necessity. Their request was not just ignored, but they ended up spending the night in a cell with nothing but metal bunks beneath them. No mats, no pillows, and only a thin prison-issued blanket that provided no comfort, warmth, or protection from the cold hard surface of the bunks.

Can you imagine that? You’ve just been transferred after a traumatic experience, you’ve been assaulted, and now you’re expected to sleep on metal?

A Denial of Medication and Medical Care

As if the inadequate sleeping arrangements weren't enough, the neglect continued in the form of improper medication handling. Upon arrival, my husband was not informed of the proper procedures for med call. Medication is not a luxury, it’s a necessity, especially in prison where many inmates suffer from health conditions that require routine care. In my husband's case, not receiving his medication meant more than just discomfort—it was a direct threat to his well-being.

Medical neglect like this not only shows a lack of care for human life, but it also violates his right to receive adequate medical care, which is guaranteed under the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Eighth Amendment Violation: Cruel and Unusual Punishment

What happened to my husband is a clear violation of his Eighth Amendment rights, which prohibit cruel and unusual punishment. Denying an inmate basic necessities like bedding and medical care falls squarely under this category. The courts have ruled time and again that prisons are responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of those in their custody.

Yet, here we are—my husband and countless other inmates suffering in conditions that are inhumane and unlawful.

What Can We Do About It?

First and foremost, we must speak up. Silence allows the system to continue these abusive practices without accountability. If you are a loved one of an inmate or simply an advocate for human rights, here are steps we can take together to hold these institutions accountable:

1. File Grievances: Encourage inmates to file formal grievances within the prison system. These documents serve as a paper trail and can later be used in legal action if needed.

2. Contact Legal Organizations: Organizations like the ACLU, the Southern Poverty Law Center, and the Equal Justice Initiative often take on cases where inmate rights are violated. Reaching out to these organizations can provide legal support and push prisons to change their practices.

3. Raise Awareness: Public outcry can be powerful. Use social media, blogs (like this one), and other platforms to share stories of inmate mistreatment. The more awareness we raise, the more pressure we put on the system to change.

4. Know the Law: It's important to be aware of the laws governing inmate treatment. The Eighth Amendment and the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA) outline specific rights inmates have, and these laws can be used to hold prisons accountable.

5. Write Letters to Officials: Writing letters to state or federal representatives, prison wardens, or even the Department of Corrections can sometimes result in action. The more voices they hear from, the harder it becomes to ignore these systemic issues.

My husband’s experience is one of many examples of how the prison system fails to uphold even the most basic human rights. This is why we cannot stop fighting—for him, for us, and for every inmate who is being mistreated and denied their rights. We need to hold the system accountable for its failures.

No one deserves to be treated like this, and I will continue to raise my voice until my husband and others like him are treated with the dignity they deserve.

Bible Verse for Strength:

"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." — Psalm 9:9 (NIV)

Even in moments when the system fails, and injustice seems overwhelming, I take comfort in knowing that God is with us. He is our refuge and strength in times of great adversity. We must trust in His guidance as we fight for what is right.

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Hashtags: #InmateRights #PrisonWife #EighthAmendment #PrisonReform #FightForJustice #HumanRights #Injustice #FaithAndJustice #Psalm99 #PrisonConditions #EppersonEmpowerment #ACLU #EqualJustice #PrisonAdvocacy #HopeAndHealing

The Crooked Reality of the Private Prison System: Why It’s So Hard to Get Help

When it comes to the prison system, especially private prisons, we are often told that the goal is rehabilitation and safety. But the truth is much darker and more complex. The reality of the private prison system is that it's a business, first and foremost—a business driven by profit, not by the well-being of those inside.

In private prisons, inmates become dollar signs. The more bodies they can house, the more money these corporations make. This creates a system where rehabilitation, treatment, and even basic care take a back seat to profit margins.

The difficulties in getting help within these prisons are staggering:

Medical and Mental Health Care Is Neglected

One of the most significant issues in private prisons is the lack of adequate medical and mental health care. You’d think that with the money funneled into these facilities, the inmates would have access to quality care. Instead, many inmates are denied necessary medications, mental health treatments, and substance use disorder programs that could truly help them rehabilitate.

As a result, inmates like my husband, who have serious mental health concerns and substance use disorders, are often left to fend for themselves in an environment riddled with the very things they are trying to escape—drugs and violence. Access to proper care is a constant fight, with pleas for help often falling on deaf ears.

Rehabilitation Takes a Backseat

Rehabilitation is supposed to be one of the main focuses of incarceration, but private prisons don't prioritize this. Instead of offering programs that could help inmates reintegrate into society, private prisons often limit access to education, job training, or therapy services. These are the very things that could lower recidivism rates and help inmates get back on their feet once they’re released.

The sad truth is, the system isn’t designed for them to succeed. Private prisons benefit from repeat offenders. It keeps the cells full and the profits high. The last thing these corporations want is for inmates to leave prison and never come back.

Staff Corruption and Drug Smuggling

One of the worst-kept secrets in the prison system is that a significant amount of drugs are smuggled in by staff. Yes, the very people who are supposed to be keeping our loved ones safe are the ones profiting from their addictions. How are inmates supposed to stay clean and sober when they’re surrounded by drugs, often brought in by those in charge of their security?

For those like my husband, who is trying to stay sober, this constant exposure to drugs makes the fight ten times harder. And the system? They don’t care. The staff involved often face no real consequences, and the inmates are left to navigate a world where their sobriety is constantly under threat.

Retaliation When Advocating for Help

When family members try to advocate for their loved ones, the pushback can be severe. Inmates face retaliation from staff for speaking up or having someone on the outside fight for their rights. This can mean harsher treatment, denial of basic privileges, or even being thrown in solitary confinement.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. When I’ve advocated for my husband’s medical care, or for him to receive the rehabilitation services he needs, he’s faced retaliation from staff. It’s a vicious cycle: the system is broken, and when you try to fix it, you get punished.

The Business Model

The root of all of this comes down to one thing: money. Private prisons operate on a business model. They’re paid for each inmate they house, and in some cases, they are incentivized to keep inmates in the system. The focus isn’t on rehabilitation because rehabilitated inmates mean fewer profits.

Private prisons cut corners everywhere, from the food they serve to the medical care they provide, all in the name of saving money. These corporations are publicly traded on the stock market, making profits off of human lives, suffering, and continued incarceration.

So What Can We Do?

It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such a crooked system, but that’s exactly why we have to speak up. The only way to fight back is to bring awareness to these issues, to share the stories of what’s really happening behind bars, and to push for systemic change.

We need to advocate for the elimination of private prisons and work towards a system that genuinely focuses on rehabilitation, not profit. We need to demand that inmates receive the medical, mental health, and substance use disorder treatment they need, and we need to hold staff accountable when they are part of the problem.

Our loved ones deserve better. They are human beings who have made mistakes, but they are still entitled to basic human rights—rights that are too often stripped away in private prisons.

A Call for Justice

The private prison system is not built to rehabilitate. It’s built to make money, plain and simple. Until we can expose the truth about these institutions and demand change, inmates will continue to suffer. But we can’t give up. We must keep fighting, keep pushing for justice, and keep advocating for those who can’t fight for themselves.

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Bible Verse for Strength:

Psalm 82:3 (NIV): “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.”

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#PrisonReformNow #EndPrivatePrisons #JusticeForInmates #RehabilitationOverProfit #FightTheSystem #EppersonEmpowerment #SupportInmatesRights #EndMassIncarceration #PrisonAdvocacy #HumanRightsForAll

Being a Prison Wife: A Different World

Being a prison wife isn’t just a title—it’s a world of its own. It’s a life with a rhythm and set of rules that outsiders will never fully understand. You learn things that most people couldn’t even imagine being part of their daily lives, and you adapt because you love someone behind those bars.

When your loved one is "set up" at a prison where they'll stay for a while, you learn that if you don’t hear from them for more than a day, they’re probably in "the hole." And then, all you can do is wait—sometimes days, sometimes weeks—until you get a kite, that little handwritten note, or a delayed call that says they’re okay.

If they’re going to be transferred to another yard, you know that 4:30 am is roll-up time. If you don't get that early morning call, you’re glued to the DOC website, checking for any sign of movement. If texts don’t come through, you know the tablet communication system is down again. At first, every silence feels like a red flag. You panic. You make the calls, you worry, you stress about what might have gone wrong. But after a while, you learn the drill. You learn to breathe, to wait. Then, when you finally hear their voice again—sometimes days or weeks later—you let out a sigh of relief that feels like it’s been held in for an eternity.

This is life as a prison wife. It’s a stressful life, full of ups and downs, emotional roller coasters, and endless waiting. It’s a life of constant concern, of walking on eggshells, of questioning and second-guessing. But here’s the truth: he’s worth it.

My husband will always be worth it. He is the man who keeps the breath in my lungs, the smile on my face, and the beat to my heart. I am his, and he is mine. Nothing and no one will ever come between that. Judgment, stigma, ridicule—I don’t care what it may be, that man is worth every single second of my existence. We will always find each other in this life and every one to come.

Some days are harder than others. The stress can feel unbearable at times. But no matter how hard it gets, no matter how long the wait, we are worth it. This love, this bond, this life we’re building—even through bars—is stronger than any challenge we face.

Bible Verse:

Song of Solomon 8:7 (NIV): “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned.”

Through every challenge, through every obstacle, our love will always endure.

#SendingKites #PrisonAdvocacy #VoicesOfTheIncarcerated #InmateStories #JusticeReform #MassIncarceration #EndTheStigma #PrisonReformNow #InmateVoices #PrisonLife #AdvocatingForChange #SupportForInmates #EppersonEmpowerment #HopeBeyondBars #IncarcerationAwareness

Monday Mornings, Coffee, and the Chaos of It All

It’s Monday morning, and let’s be honest—coffee isn’t enough today. I need to be struck by lightning, or at least something powerful enough to jolt me out of this overwhelming stress and exhaustion. As I sit here, waiting on a response from the warden about my husband's medical care, his denied Bible, his need for a transfer to the right yard for protection, and his access to a rehabilitation program that actually works, I feel the weight of everything.

There are so many unknowns.

I’m constantly thinking about the drugs flooding the prison, brought in by staff, while my husband—a recovering addict—is left to fight his demons without the medication-assisted treatment (MAT) he so desperately needs. How is anyone supposed to rehabilitate in a system like this? It feels like the odds are stacked against him, and by extension, against us.

On top of that, I’ve got my own battles. I’m anxiously waiting for my court date on the 16th, trying to keep my head above water while starting over from nothing. No job, pending disability, dealing with agoraphobia, and facing the uncertainty of what the future holds for both of us. I need help, but sometimes, it feels like there’s nowhere to turn. The pressure is relentless, and the unknown can be terrifying.

But here I am, trying to stay positive, trying to smile through the chaos. It’s not easy, and some days, like today, it feels impossible. I’m learning how to rebuild my life while he serves a five-year sentence, learning to be both my own strength and his, trying to hold everything together.

It’s overwhelming. There’s no sugar-coating it. But what keeps me going is love. It’s the faith that somehow, we’ll get through this—one day at a time, one step at a time. I know God has a plan for us, even if I can’t see it right now. I’ve just got to keep believing that brighter days are ahead, even when it feels like everything is falling apart.

Somehow, despite everything, I’ll keep smiling, keep fighting, and keep trusting that we’re both on a path toward something better. Even if right now, all I really need is a bigger cup of coffee and a miracle to get through the day.

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Bible Verse for Strength:

Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

#MondayStruggles #PrisonWifeLife #OvercomingObstacles #StayStrong #EppersonEmpowerment #FaithInTheUnknown #AddictionRecovery #FightingForHim #CoffeeAndChaos #RebuildingMyLife #TrustingGodsPlan

Loving Someone Who Is Incarcerated: Is It Worth It? Absolutely!

Being with someone who is incarcerated isn’t just hard—it’s emotionally exhausting, lonely, and overwhelming. For those of us standing on the outside, there are days when fear, doubt, and stress consume us. We wonder: Are they being honest with me over the phone? Are they using again? Are they staying out of trouble? The questions never stop, and neither do the worries.

We carry the weight of supporting ourselves, while also trying to support them financially. It often feels like the responsibility doubles, and sometimes we wonder if they expect it or even appreciate it. But then comes the biggest question of all—Is it worth it?

YES! A thousand times yes! Because the person you love, the one you chose to stand by, is worth it. And the love you share makes it worth it.

Being a prison wife is hard. Being the wife of a recovering addict is even harder—especially knowing that prisons are filled with the same drugs that nearly took them away from us. The fear that the drugs will pull them back in never really leaves us, but neither does our love.

But here’s the thing: I love him. I love him with everything I have. I support him, I am his strength, and in many ways, I am his reason to keep fighting. I am his anchor, his stability, and no matter how long this journey takes, I won’t ever give that up.

He is worth every tear I’ve shed, every long night of doubt, and every moment of waiting. We are worth it. This is our journey. And though the path is full of obstacles and heartbreak, I truly believe this is the road that God has put us on for a reason. Maybe it’s to help him finally get sober, or maybe it’s to show both of us what true love, honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness in a marriage really are.

Incarceration doesn’t define us. It challenges us, yes, but it’s not the whole story. We are building something much bigger, something deeper, something that is absolutely worth fighting for. Every second spent apart is a test of our strength and commitment, but that just means when we are together again, we’ll be stronger than ever.

This journey is about US, and we are forever worth fighting for, no matter how long it takes.

1 Corinthians 13:7 (NIV): “It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

#PrisonWifeJourney #LoveAndLoyalty #StrengthAndSupport #AddictionRecovery #EppersonEmpowerment #FaithInLove #TrueLoveThroughTheBars #WorthTheWait #NeverGivingUp #FightingForUs #MarriageAndFaith #GodsPathToHealing #EndMassIncarceration

A Gentleman’s Love - A poem for my husband

 

In your eyes, I find my grace,
A love so deep, no time can erase.
You treat me like a queen, so rare,
With every touch, you show you care.

A true gentleman, through and through,
You make me feel cherished in all you do.
In your arms, I feel so safe,
With you, my love, there's no mistake.

You see my beauty, inside and out,
In your love, I have no doubt.
The way you honor me, pure and sweet,
A respect so strong, no one can beat.

You treat me like your precious Queen,
And you, my love, will always reign as my King.
Forever, I will love and cherish you,
For no man could ever compare to what you do.

I wish every woman could know this bliss,
The magic in every gentle kiss.
The way you make me feel adored,
A love that leaves me wanting more.

I hope the world can see your grace,
How you uplift me in every space.
Every man could learn from you,
How to love a woman, pure and true.

For in your love, I am complete,
A bond that no one can defeat.
No one will ever take your place,
You are my King, my heart’s embrace.

The Cost of Staying Connected: Why Are Families Paying So Much to Communicate with Their Incarcerated Loved Ones?

When a loved one is incarcerated, staying connected becomes not just a matter of emotional support but also a financial burden. The price of simply talking, texting, or sending a message to someone inside the system is outrageous, and the financial weight of it all falls squarely on the shoulders of the families who are already suffering. We’ve all heard the phrase “doing time,” but what we rarely talk about is how much it costs for families to stay connected while our loved ones are locked away.

Let’s break it down:

• Phone Calls: If your loved one is in county jail, it costs $0.23 per minute to talk to them. That means a 15-minute call costs $3.45. Move them to prison, and the rate drops to $0.06 per minute, but don’t forget that every time you purchase minutes, you’re hit with fees and taxes that add an extra $3.50 or more to each transaction. So even though the rate per minute may seem affordable, the fees quickly add up.

• Text Messages: The tablets inmates use might look like a great way for them to communicate with their families. Some inmates thought texting was free. Nope. For every message we send and every reply they send back, it’s $0.10 per message. And again, when you load funds to purchase texts, you’re charged that extra $3.50 per transaction in fees and taxes. Over time, these costs add up fast, and families are left footing the bill for basic communication.

• E-Messages: If you want to send a longer message via email, it’s $0.25 per stamp. But don’t think you can attach a family photo without an extra cost—every picture you attach to an e-message costs an additional stamp. Sending a message with a couple of photos? You could easily be paying $0.50 or more just for one email. And yes, you guessed it—fees and taxes are added to every transaction where you buy stamps, tacking on an extra $3.50.

• Video Visits: Think a video call might be a more affordable option? Think again. A 20-minute video visit costs $5.00. Once again, that doesn’t include the extra fees and taxes that can push the cost higher.

These are just the costs to talk, text, or visit. Then there’s the commissary. We put money on our loved one’s accounts so they can purchase basic necessities. Why? Because the food they’re served in prison often comes in boxes that are labeled “Not for Human Consumption.” Yes, you read that right. Many of us send money so our loved ones can buy food that won’t make them sick. And it’s not cheap.

• Commissary Charges: Beyond food, inmates need to buy extra clothing if they want more than the bare minimum provided. Yet, despite paying for these items, they don’t get to keep them when they leave. To add insult to injury, in some prisons, inmates are even charged “utility fees” to cover the costs of electricity and water they use while incarcerated. This, despite the fact that taxpayers already pay to keep these facilities running. So, we’re left wondering—why are families being double-charged?

Why Are We Paying for a Broken System?

It’s important to ask: What exactly are we paying for? The prison system claims to offer rehabilitation, but the reality is far from it. Instead of rehabilitation, what we see are:

• Drugs and Cell Phones Being Smuggled In by Staff: Drugs and illegal cell phones are more readily available inside than they often are on the outside. And who’s bringing them in? In many cases, it’s the very staff responsible for “rehabilitating” the inmates. Some staff members are making deals with the inmates, blackmailing them, or contributing to a system of corruption.

• Mistreatment of Inmates: The stories of inmates being mistreated, blackmailed, and ignored by staff are all too common. Those who are supposed to ensure their well-being are, in some cases, the ones perpetuating abuse and creating a hostile environment.

• No Real Rehabilitation: Instead of focusing on rehabilitation programs that could actually help inmates reintegrate into society, the system is more interested in perpetuating a cycle of punishment, control, and exploitation. We are paying an arm and a leg for our loved ones to endure this system, and yet, they aren’t being helped. They aren’t receiving the education, treatment, or rehabilitation they deserve.

We already pay taxes to fund these prisons, yet we’re asked to bear the financial burden of keeping in contact with our loved ones. And on top of that, our loved ones are left with little more than a broken system, designed to exploit both inmates and their families. The charges, fees, and the treatment of those inside make us wonder: What is this system truly about, and who is it really serving?

A Call for Change

It’s time we start asking these questions and demanding answers. Why should families suffer financially just to stay connected with their loved ones? Why should we be paying for basic communication and access to necessities in a system that’s supposed to be funded by taxpayers? And more importantly, why isn’t the system doing what it’s supposed to—helping our loved ones become better, not worse?

We need real reform, transparency, and accountability. Families like mine, and so many others, are tired of paying the price—financially, emotionally, and mentally—for a system that isn’t working.

#PrisonReform #EndExploitation #InmateAdvocacy #StopTheCycle #EppersonEmpowerment #StandUpForFamilies #PrisonSystemFailures #EndMassIncarceration #FightForChange #JusticeForInmates #StopTheGreed

Advocating for Your Loved One: Fighting for Adequate Medical Care and Mental Health Support in the Prison System

Advocating for a loved one who is incarcerated can be one of the most challenging experiences a family can face. The prison system often seems impenetrable, with layers of bureaucracy, neglect, and, in some cases, retaliation. The fight for adequate medical care and mental health support is a constant battle for many families, and it’s a battle that can feel overwhelming.

When someone you love is incarcerated, you expect that they will at least receive basic medical treatment and mental health care. However, many inmates struggle with untreated or inadequately managed mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and the trauma that comes with being institutionalized. For too many, the system neglects these needs, leaving them vulnerable to further harm.

The Challenges of Getting Proper Medical and Mental Health Care

Many incarcerated individuals suffer from severe substance use disorders (SUDs), mental health conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and more. The lack of comprehensive mental health care inside the prison system is a huge issue. Medications that work for your loved one might be stopped abruptly, often without a proper transition plan, which can result in devastating consequences. The system doesn’t always take into account the complexity of mental health issues, switching medications without proper assessment, and leaving inmates vulnerable.

For instance, medications such as Seroquel (often prescribed for sleep disturbances and anxiety) may be stopped without warning, and substituted with less effective treatments. This can be life-threatening, especially for individuals already suffering from complex mental health issues.

In addition to these issues, many are denied access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), a critical component of recovery for those struggling with substance use disorders. Without MAT, inmates often resort to self-medicating through illicit means, which only perpetuates the cycle of addiction.

Retaliation and Intimidation from Prison Staff

When families advocate for their loved ones, it’s not uncommon for inmates to face retaliation. Staff might withhold personal items, make unprofessional or degrading comments, or ignore requests for medical treatment. Unfortunately, some inmates are even discouraged from pressing charges or seeking help after being assaulted, out of fear that they will face further mistreatment.

Families advocating for their loved ones may be warned to “be careful who you talk to” because complaints or calls for help can sometimes trigger retaliation. This retaliation can take many forms, from the deletion of important communication (such as messages and photos) to the withholding of necessary medications or personal property.

How Families Can Advocate for Their Loved Ones

Despite the challenges, families can play a crucial role in advocating for their loved ones' medical care and mental health treatment. Here are steps you can take to ensure your voice is heard and your loved one receives the support they need:

1. Stay Informed About Their Medical Rights: Inmates have the right to adequate medical care under the Eighth Amendment. This includes access to necessary medications, mental health treatment, and safe living conditions. Familiarize yourself with your loved one’s rights so that you can advocate effectively.

2. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communication with prison staff, medical personnel, and advocacy organizations. Make note of any changes in your loved one’s treatment, medications, or housing status, as well as any instances of unprofessional behavior or retaliation.

3. Request a Medical and Mental Health Re-evaluation: If your loved one’s medication has been discontinued or changed, request a re-evaluation of their psychiatric treatment. You can also ask for Genesight testing, which helps determine the most appropriate medications based on genetic profiles, avoiding harmful medication switches.

4. Advocate for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): If your loved one struggles with substance use disorders, MAT is a proven and effective treatment. Make it clear that your loved one has a medical right to this treatment and push for access to MAT as part of their rehabilitation.

5. Contact the Correct Authorities: If you feel that your loved one’s treatment is being ignored or mishandled, don’t hesitate to escalate the issue. Contact Constituent Services, the warden, and deputy wardens of the facility, as well as the state’s Department of Corrections or equivalent authority. In some cases, it may be necessary to reach out to your state’s governor for further attention.

6. Highlight Retaliatory Behavior: If your loved one is facing retaliation for advocating for their rights or for your advocacy on their behalf, it’s important to document this and report it to the relevant authorities. Retaliation is illegal and unethical, and there should be accountability for such actions.

7. Get Involved with Advocacy Groups: There are many organizations that advocate for inmate rights, including access to proper medical care and mental health treatment. Groups like the ACLU and Prisoner’s Rights Advocacy groups can provide resources and support as you navigate these challenges.

8. Know That Drugs in Prisons Are a Real Problem: Many families are unaware that drugs are often brought into prisons by staff members. This perpetuates the cycle of addiction and makes rehabilitation more difficult for inmates. Speak up about this issue and push for internal investigations into staff involvement in drug trafficking within the system.

My Personal Experience

The reason I know all of this is because I am living it firsthand. I currently advocate for my husband, and I deal with these struggles daily. From retaliation from staff to withheld medical treatment, I have seen how difficult it is to ensure that he receives the care and support he deserves. It’s a constant battle, but one worth fighting for.

Need Help?

If you’re struggling to advocate for your loved one, feel free to reach out to me. I’ve been through this process myself and know how difficult it can be. I can offer advice and try to point you in the right direction. Together, we can make sure our loved ones are getting the treatment and care they need.

Daily Bible Verse:

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

No one should have to go without adequate medical care, suffer in silence, or be mistreated because they are incarcerated. Together, we can raise our voices and demand the care, respect, and dignity that every human being deserves—inside or outside the prison walls.

#PrisonReform #InmateAdvocacy #MedicalRights #MentalHealthAwareness #EndRecidivism #EppersonEmpowerment #EndMassIncarceration #JusticeForInmates #FightForChange #PrisonWifeJourney #StandUpForYourLovedOnes #FaithAndStrength

Advocating for Your Loved One: The Harsh Reality of Retaliation from Prison Staff

Advocating for your loved one on the outside is hard enough, but what makes it even more difficult is the retaliation that often happens to them on the inside. It’s one of the harshest realities for families who are trying to do the right thing—supporting their loved ones, standing up for their rights, and ensuring they’re treated fairly. Unfortunately, this advocacy can sometimes result in the exact opposite: mistreatment, rude comments, withholding of personal items, and deliberate ignorance from the staff.

Just yesterday, my husband, Ryan, experienced this firsthand. When Ryan received his personal property, including his wedding ring and a receipt for both the ring and his Bible, the correctional officer informed him that he couldn’t have his Bible because it was a hardback. This wouldn’t seem like a huge issue to most, but for Ryan—who is currently in protective custody due to being attacked by another inmate—it’s a direct deprivation of a crucial source of spiritual support.

I believe this violates his First Amendment right to the free exercise of religion. He wasn’t being punished or held in detention; he was simply in protective custody, trying to stay safe. Yet, he was being deprived of one of the few things that can provide him with peace of mind and faith during this difficult time. What’s worse is that when Ryan and his cellmate pointed out that his cellmate had a hardback book obtained from downstairs, the officer confiscated that book as well, making the entire situation seem retaliatory and punitive.

And that wasn’t the end of it. The officer made a sarcastic comment to Ryan, saying, “I guess if you bitch enough, you get stuff done around here.” This unprofessional remark only added to the feeling that Ryan was being targeted due to my advocacy on his behalf. The disrespect and retaliation were palpable.

Later, a CO3 came to address Ryan’s “tablet issues” and made another unnecessary comment, saying something along the lines of, “Your wife has been making calls about…” This clearly showed that my efforts to advocate for my husband’s rights were not only being noticed but used against him.

Ryan then explained that I had been deleted from his tablet account, our messages had been erased, and all the pictures I sent him were gone. The CO3 mentioned that Securus Administrative is looking into this issue, and we are currently awaiting a response. But the damage is done—our personal communication and connection were wiped out, adding to our already overwhelming concerns about Ryan’s treatment and his access to basic rights.

And this isn’t the first time we’ve been harassed or retaliated against by the system. Both Ryan and I have experienced this before. I am in regular contact with Constituent Services, the incorrect warden, and incorrect deputy wardens listed on the CoreCivic website as points of contact for this prison. I’ve even reached out to Governor Katie Hobbs, only to receive automated responses confirming that my messages have been received.

I’m doing everything I can to advocate for Ryan, but it feels like we’re up against an unyielding system designed to silence and intimidate those who speak up. Whether it’s withholding his Bible, deleting our communication, or making dismissive comments, the pattern is clear: advocating for your loved one can make them a target for even more mistreatment.

This isn’t just a story about a Bible and some deleted messages. This is about the broader issue of retaliation that happens when families like mine advocate for the ones we love. It’s about the emotional toll it takes on both the inmate and the family on the outside, who are just trying to ensure their loved one is treated with dignity.

The question remains: Why should advocating for someone’s rights lead to punishment? And how long do we have to fight this battle before those on the inside receive the basic respect and humanity they deserve?

How Do You Stop Recidivism When 99% of the Drugs Are Being Brought in and Distributed by Staff?

Recidivism—the tendency of a convicted individual to reoffend—is a critical issue in our prison system. But here’s the harsh reality that many people outside the system don’t realize: a staggering percentage of the drugs that fuel addiction inside prisons are brought in and distributed by the very staff who are supposed to be upholding the law. This isn’t just speculation—I’ve seen it firsthand.

The prison where my husband is incarcerated is riddled with Fentanyl, a drug that destroys lives, a drug that nearly took my husband's life before. As a recovering addict, he fights daily against the temptation and the demons that come with it. But here’s the added layer of frustration: the prison system refuses to help him with a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, despite our numerous pleas. They say prison is about rehabilitation, but how can that be true when the very substances that destroy lives are easier to get behind bars than on the streets?

I’ve watched this cycle play out, not just with my husband, but with countless others. My husband has been clean for a time now, and every day is a battle to maintain that. For someone in recovery, being surrounded by drugs like Fentanyl creates an unbearable pressure. Without proper treatment or support from the prison system, it feels like they’re just waiting for the next relapse, setting him up for failure rather than success.

Every day, my husband is forced to fight off those demons with nothing but the Faith of God and the support of his wife. He doesn’t have access to the MAT program that could help him stay on the right track, but he has faith. He has me, and I have him. Together, we pray that God can guide him through the triggers, through the intense desire to numb the pain, to escape just for a moment from the cruel environment of a prison that claims to offer “rehabilitation.”

This is where the system fails us all. They talk about rehabilitation, about giving people the tools they need to reintegrate into society. But how can they talk about reform when drugs like Fentanyl are flowing freely inside the prison walls, brought in by those who should be ensuring a safe environment? My husband isn’t just fighting his addiction—he’s fighting the system that makes it harder for him to stay clean.

Addiction is a disease, and yet, the very institutions meant to help people overcome it are doing the opposite. The easy access to drugs, the refusal to implement life-saving programs like MAT, and the hypocrisy of it all—it’s a system set up to fail.

So, what can we do? As family members, it’s up to us to continue advocating for our loved ones. We pray, we support, and we fight for the help they deserve. I’m standing by my husband, not just as his wife but as his advocate. And every day, I pray to God that we can get through this, that we can resist the pull of addiction, that we can find strength in faith.

I refuse to let the system take him down again. With the grace of God, we’ll continue to fight off the temptation and walk the path of recovery. But it shouldn’t be this hard. It shouldn’t feel like the system is working against us, making rehabilitation an almost impossible task.

Stopping recidivism isn’t just about fixing the inmates; it’s about fixing the system. When staff are bringing in drugs and undermining the very principles of rehabilitation, how can we expect our loved ones to succeed? My husband fights every day, with God’s help, and with my love and support. But we need the system to do its part too. The path to recovery shouldn’t be a constant battle against the very place that’s supposed to help them heal.

Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

1 Corinthians 16:13 (NIV): “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”

#PrisonReform #EndRecidivism #InmateAdvocacy #EppersonEmpowerment #AccountabilityNow #StopTheCycle #PrisonWifeJourney #EndMassIncarceration #JusticeAndRehabilitation #AddictionRecovery

https://wires.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/wfs2.1473

Trusting Through the Bars: My Journey of Faith and Devotion

Trust. It’s the foundation of any relationship, but when your husband is incarcerated, trust becomes both a lifeline and a battlefield. I’ll admit it—I struggled when my husband went back in. I wasn’t just sad; I was angry, resentful, and, if I’m being honest, I almost hated him for putting us in this situation. It felt like everything we had worked for was shattered, like we were back at square one, and I couldn’t see past the pain and frustration.

But then I had to ask myself—where does the blame game get me? Where does it get us? We were already in a tough spot, and pointing fingers wasn’t going to make it any better. So, I stopped. I took a deep breath and asked myself the questions that really mattered.

Do I love him? I mean, truly love him like I said I did when I turned my world completely upside down to be with him? Is he still that man I saw behind the orange suit and DOC number? Is he worth my trust, my loyalty, my faithfulness, my devotion, ME?

Absolutely.

Everyone else in his life—except for his grandmother—walked away from him. They showed him that he didn’t matter, that his screw-ups were bigger than him as a person. They turned their backs and left him feeling like he was nothing more than a hardened "career criminal," as he called it. But you know what? SCREW THAT! I saw HIM, from the moment we met. I saw the man he so desperately wanted to be, the man he could be if only someone believed in him.

I know my husband. I know him when he’s high, I know him when he’s sober, I know him as an inmate, I know him as a human. I KNOW HIM. So, was I going to give up on him? Was I going to let the knowledge of everything I knew about the inside, from my time as a Correctional Officer, make my decisions about him and his faithfulness to me? Was I going to doubt his ability to be honest and stay clean?

NOPE.

I am going to be that wife who fights. I am going to be that devoted, faithful, honest wife who gives him that last bit of hope and strength to stay sober, fight the inside, and COME HOME. Because listen, these guys WANT to change. They are tired, they are worn out. They don’t WANT this life, but it’s what they know. It’s what’s easy. It’s easier to numb the misery than it is to live it.

But how many times do we sit and think, “Damn, if only this shit would stop…?” Well, they made it stop, time and time again, because they never felt good enough to live through it. That’s where we come in. We have to show them that life is worth it, that THEY are worth it. We have to be their strength when they have none left, their hope when the darkness closes in.

Time and time again, my husband has heard those hurtful words from the people he loved—people who should have stood by him when he needed them most. "Tell him I’m done. I have nothing more to say to him. I love him and I will pray for him, but I won’t speak to him again." "He’s a fuck up; he will never change." "He just keeps going back; what makes you think he’ll ever stop?" These words, though not verbatim, are close enough to the truth that they’ve echoed in his mind, driving deeper the pain of abandonment, rejection, and loss that he’s carried for so long.

But here’s the thing: I am the ONE PERSON in this world who knows EVERY SIDE of my husband. I didn’t meet him as Ryan, the man I would come to love with every fiber of my being. No, I met him as a "typical inmate" with a number. I had no idea who he really was. I watched him, monitored him as such, and in doing so, I learned more about him than most people will ever know.

I know him as Ryan, the man who spent his life grappling with abandonment issues, loss, and rejection from his family. The man who battled drug addiction, who didn’t have the schooling or the love that most take for granted. I know him sober. I know him high as a kite. I know him demonic from the drugs, and I know him as MY HUSBAND.

Now, all of those sides are different, but the one worth fighting for is MY HUSBAND. I will fight until the very end for him, because that man—Mr. Ryan Epperson—is the most amazing man I’ve ever had the privilege to not only know, but love, and be loved by.

So many people have walked away from THAT man, and they will never know how truly amazing he is. They see only the mistakes, the relapses, the prison sentences. They don’t see the man who fights every day to be better, to rise above the hand he’s been dealt, to break free from the chains of his past. But not me. I see him, and I am the LUCKY ONE.

I’m the one who gets to stand by his side, to help him shine, because damn it, he’s beyond worth it! I’m not just fighting for a man in prison; I’m fighting for the man who has shown me a love so deep and pure that it’s changed my life. I’m fighting for the man who, despite everything, still has the strength to keep going, to keep trying, to keep loving.

I will never walk away from Ryan. I will never give up on him. He is worth every tear, every sleepless night, every moment of doubt. He is worth it all, because he is not just an inmate, not just a man with a number—he is my husband, my love, my everything.

So, if you ever ask yourself, "Do I trust him?" "Is he lying to me?" "Is he using again?" "Is he talking to other girls?" Stop, take a minute to sit with yourself, your thoughts, your emotions, and ask yourself... Is he worth it? Is he worth the fight to help him let go of all those traumas and insecurities? Is he worth ME showing HIM that he is WORTH IT ALL?! If he's not, because no, not all of them are, then you do what is best for you, because YOU are worth it... BUT... IF HE IS... FIGHT LIKE HELL FOR HIM! Fight with all you have inside, no matter how draining it is, how many tears you shed, how many times you want to hang up that phone or tell him where to go and how to get there... FIGHT! Your love, your prayers, your strength are everything he has NEVER had, but ALWAYS wanted... Trust me when I say... YOU are his angel... How do I know this? Because my husband tells me every day, over and over again... I AM HIS REASON FOR LIVING, and I'll be damned if I let that go!

So yes, it’s hard. Yes, it’s frustrating. And yes, sometimes I feel like the world is stacked against us. But love, trust, and faithfulness aren’t about what’s easy. They’re about seeing the person inside, believing in their potential, and standing by them no matter what. That’s what I’m going to do, and that’s how we’re going to make it through this—together.

Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Song of Solomon 8:7 (NIV): "Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned."

#PrisonWifeJourney #TrustAndFaith #InmateAdvocacy #EppersonEmpowerment #DevotionAndStrength #LoveThroughTheBars #EndMassIncarceration #PrisonLife #StayStrong #FightForWhatMatters

If you want to know what they're really thinking....My husband said I couldn't have written it any better...

 

Between the Walls

In these cold, concrete walls, where shadows reign,
I fight a war within, battling the pain.
Drugs all around me, whispers in the air,
Temptation’s a beast, but I try to stay aware.

Your letters, your voice, they keep me from the edge,
In a world built to break me, you’re my only pledge.
I’m trying to stay sober, but it’s a constant fight,
When darkness surrounds me, you’re my guiding light.

It’s hard to stay true in a place so cold,
Where you have to be tough, you have to be bold.
The man I was outside, he’s fading fast,
I’m forced to wear this mask, a role I didn’t cast.

To survive in here, I’ve had to change my ways,
Think like a hardened soul, count down the days.
Institutionalized, I learn to play the game,
But deep down inside, I’m not the same.

I can’t live two lives, can’t be both men,
The one inside these walls, and the one I was back then.
It’s killing me slowly, piece by piece,
But your love is the only thing that brings me peace.

I dream of the outside, of who I used to be,
But the weight of this life is crushing me.
Yet your faith in me, it keeps me strong,
In this place where everything feels so wrong.

So I hold on to your love, like a lifeline tight,
In the darkest hours, in the dead of night.
For when the time comes, and these bars are no more,
I’ll find my way back to the man you adore.

But until that day, I’ll fight to stay true,
In this hell, your love is all that gets me through.
I’m living one life, the one I must to survive,
But with you in my heart, I’ll keep hope alive.

~ DeAnna Epperson

"You've Got 1 Minute Remaining": The Weight of Time During Prison Calls

 

For anyone with a loved one behind bars, those precious moments on the phone are like lifelines. It’s a brief escape from the harsh reality of prison life, a chance to hear the voice of someone you love, and to remind each other that you’re still connected, no matter the distance. But then, just as you’re getting into the conversation, you hear those dreaded words: "You've got 1 minute remaining."

In that moment, everything changes. Time suddenly feels like it’s slipping through your fingers, and you’re faced with the harsh reality that this connection, this brief moment of normalcy, is about to be cut short. The clock is ticking, and you have to make the most of what little time you have left.

When that warning comes, there’s a sense of panic that sets in. What do you say? How do you sum up everything you want to communicate in just 60 seconds? Do you offer words of comfort, share the latest news, or simply say, "I love you" one more time? It’s an impossible choice, and the pressure of the countdown can feel overwhelming.

For my husband and me, those final seconds are often filled with a rush of words—trying to cram in as much as we can before the line goes dead. It’s a bittersweet moment, knowing that the connection is about to be severed, and all that’s left is silence. The abrupt end of the call is a stark reminder of the barriers between us, and the reality of prison life.

That single minute carries so much weight. It’s a reminder of the limitations placed on our relationship, the control that the system has over our lives, and the constant presence of time—always running out, always dictating what we can and cannot do. The emotional toll of these calls is heavy, both for the person behind bars and for those of us on the outside.

After the call ends, there’s often a lingering sense of loss. The conversation is over, but the emotions remain. There are so many things left unsaid, so many feelings that couldn’t be fully expressed in such a short amount of time. It’s hard not to feel a sense of frustration, of wanting more time, of wishing that these calls didn’t have to end so soon.

Despite the challenges, those minutes on the phone are precious. They’re a chance to maintain the bond with your loved one, to offer support, and to keep the connection alive. Over time, you learn to make the most of every second—to focus on what’s most important, to share the love and encouragement that will carry you both through until the next call.

It’s not easy, but it’s a reminder of the strength of your relationship, of the love that persists even in the face of adversity. That one minute might be brief, but it’s filled with meaning, with the knowledge that you’re still there for each other, no matter what.

"Your call is now being terminated." The line goes dead, but the love doesn’t. Those phone calls, limited as they are, are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of connection. Even when time is running out, we find ways to make every second count, to hold onto the hope that one day, we won’t be bound by these limitations.

Until then, we keep listening for those precious words— "I love you"—and holding onto them until the next time the phone rings.

Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

#PrisonCalls #InmateAdvocacy #PrisonWifeJourney #EppersonEmpowerment #StayConnected #LoveAndResilience #EndMassIncarceration #InmateSupport #PrisonLife

 

The Prison Wife's Vow

The Prison Wife’s Vow

In a world of judgment, where whispers run deep,

I stand by your side, my promise to keep.

Loyalty unwavering, through darkness and light,

I’m devoted to you, both day and night.

Behind those cold walls, where freedom’s denied,

I carry our love with honor and pride.

Honesty guides us, no secrets to hide,

In truth, we find strength, with nothing to divide.

They may see the bars, the sentence, the shame,

But I see the man, beyond just a name.

Devotion like mine, they can never understand,

For I am your wife, and you are my man.

Through every trial, I remain steadfast,

Our bond is unbreakable, built to last.

No distance, no time, can weaken our ties,

For in my heart, your love never dies.

So, I stand tall, with my head held high,

Faithful and true, as the days pass by.

For I am your prison wife, loyal and strong,

Together we’ll endure, where we belong.

Written by ~ DeAnna Epperson

Sunday Reflections: Choosing the Higher Path Amidst Frustration and Drama

As I sit here on this Sunday, reflecting on the past week, my mind is flooded with the frustrations and drama that seem to have become all too familiar. It’s been a week filled with moments where I’ve been reminded, sometimes painfully, just how mean and cruel people can be to one another. The temptation to retaliate, to strike back with the same venom that has been directed at me and my husband—the man I protect the most—has been strong. But deep down, I know that two wrongs do not make a right.

The truth is, life is full of challenges, and people will wrong us in ways that are sometimes difficult to understand or forgive. It’s human nature to want to defend ourselves, to respond to cruelty with the same harshness, and to let anger guide our actions. But as I reflect today, I’m reminded of the importance of stopping, refocusing, and choosing the higher path.

When someone wrongs us, especially when they target the people we love most, our first instinct is often to retaliate, to make them feel the same pain they’ve inflicted on us. It’s a natural response, driven by our sense of justice and our need to protect ourselves and those we care about. But acting on that instinct can lead us down a path of further conflict, escalating the situation and causing even more harm to ourselves and others.

I’ve felt that urge this week—to lash out, to fight back with the same intensity that’s been thrown at me and my husband. But I’ve also had to remind myself that doing so won’t bring us peace or resolution. It might feel satisfying in the moment, but it’s a temporary fix that leaves behind lasting damage.

In moments of anger and frustration, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But this week, I’ve been making a conscious effort to refocus. I’ve had to remind myself that there is always a proper way to handle things, even when the world seems unfair and people act with cruelty.

Refocusing means taking a step back, taking a deep breath, and choosing to respond with grace instead of anger. It means remembering that my actions define who I am, not the actions of those who hurt me or my husband. By choosing the higher path, I’m not just protecting myself—I’m also protecting him and setting an example for those around me. Strength doesn’t come from retaliation but from restraint and wisdom.

In my journey, both personal and as an advocate, I’ve encountered countless injustices, particularly within the system that holds so much power over the lives of our loved ones. It’s easy to feel powerless, to want to fight back with every tool at my disposal. But I know that fighting the system requires patience, strategy, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

This week has tested my resolve, but it’s also strengthened my belief that change doesn’t come from lashing out in anger—it comes from persistence, from standing up for what’s right in a way that reflects the values we want to see in the world. Whether it’s advocating for my husband’s rights or dealing with the personal conflicts that arise, I’m choosing to handle things with integrity, knowing that this is the only way to achieve real, lasting change.

As this week comes to an end, I’m choosing to let go of the anger and frustration, and instead focus on what I can control—my own actions, my own responses. The world can be cruel, and people can be harsh, but I won’t let that dictate who I am or how I behave. There is always a better way to handle things, a way that aligns with my values and my vision for the future.

Let’s continue to fight for what’s right, but let’s do it with grace, patience, and wisdom. After all, two wrongs never make a right.

Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

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