Born into a world of abuse and neglect, Ann Casildo grew up a ward of the state; living in some 60 different homes and institutions around the country, while being mentally and physically abused just about everywhere she went. Despite this near-constant trauma, Ann dedicated her life to caring for and protecting her younger sister as they both endured the nightmare of growing up in the system.The Suffering Shadow is an autobiographical story of the author's continuing life struggles as she desperately searches to find feelings of love and belonging. Facing hardship at nearly every step, Ann lives through post-traumatic stress and fights to escape the fear and misery that have plagued her life. The author pulls no punches as she emotionally recounts the nightmares she has lived through while searching for, and ultimately finding, the mental and emotional strength to get the help she needs. The book chronicles Ann's journey through seemingly insurmountable obstacles, along the way to finding at least a little bit of the love and happiness she has longed for her entire life.About the Author: Born in Michigan City, IN, the author grew up in the system as Ann Elizabeth Smith. She has been writing poetry since the age of five. The Suffering Shadow was inspired by her own struggles to overcome the hardships she has endured and to make a decent life for herself. Currently Ann lives in Westville, IN, with her biological father. When she is not writing, she enjoys being around horses.Publisher's website: http://sbpra.com/AnnCasildo