Breaking Free: Amy's Journey Returning to Her Heart After Escaping Warren Jeffs' Control 

What a story! After watching all 4 parts, my biggest take away is that Amy has been a meaningfull, safe person in the lifes of so many. All the children she has looked after I'm sure remember her for the rest of their lifes. I'm happy to know she too has found a safe and happy place in her life.

Dear Lady, how any of you came out of this normal is beyond belief. He is sick with evil. God bless you and keep you and grant you peace.

I’m in tears! Hearing this perspective gives me a greater understanding of the mindset my daughter Misty must be holding on to. I miss her so very much. This gives me a tiny glimmer of hope that maybe we will be able to see her back into our lives someday. I am so happy for you Amy! It makes my heart soar to know Aunt Ada has her baby daughter back! ❤ Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you Sam and Melissa, for making this series. You’re very classy in the way you present all these stories. I appreciate the way you’ve opened the way for real stories, instead of sensationalism.

I'm really glad that you did this series, hearing Amy's story from childhood to freedom. Amy's story made me realize that the FLDS is a religious version of enslavement. One person with absolute power to tear families apart, being assigned chores, having sex on demand of the man, reassigning women and children to other men, banishment out sounds like being enslaved to me. Instead of literal whips and chains, they use religious doctrine and fear to keep people in line. I would suggest putting the part numbers in the title so that viewers can watch the whole series. I hope that you do more long form interviews in the future.

Hi Amy, I just wanted to say thank you for opening yourself up to the world and sharing your story. I cannot imagine the pain and stress that you have dealt with but I hope you know how much of an inspiration you are. You have taken a very difficult lifestyle and rejected it for something that will bring you peace, comfort and joy! I am so happy that you’ve reconnected with your mother and have become her caregiver - what an honor to do that for the woman who gave you life! I was especially touched by your special attention to the “little one” who was not your biological child but whom you treated as such during the Texas raid. You showed compassion and courage, which are a rare combination in difficult times. I was so enthralled by your story that I watched it all in 24 hours - you should definitely write a book! May you have every happiness that this world has to offer ❤❤❤

If anyone wants to know what PTSD looks like watch this interview . I wish Amy the best in life she deserves peace and happiness

Love the emotional support cat in the video! 😺 It's wonderful to hear how Amy triumphed through the mental torture that came with life as one of Warren's "ladies." If anyone deserved happiness and love after all that, it was Amy Draper.

The moment she shared with the big trees and the wind on her face thinking “I’m free” was so powerful

Thank you for patiently allowing her to tell her story in the way she needed to tell it.

Seems like the cat came over to comfort your guest when she started to cry around 58:30

I am so honored to make your acquaintance and to hear your story. The cruelty of Warren Jeffs is beyond anything imaginable. I am so happy you found true love. Love is everything and can have the family you want and create. You are a heroine to be honored.

I’ve been following this channel for a year or two now and these episodes with Amy may be my favorites so far. Her story was so direct and open that it was obvious it came straight from the heart. I’m so glad she is doing well.

I've read many books written by survivors of Mormon cults. Many from the LeBaron group. My heart aches for these people. Especially the children born into this way of life. I come from a generational Mennonite family, on both sides. I'm so thankful that Dad was able to show us children that a personal relationship with God was more important than following any man or man made rules. We were taught to think for ourselves and never follow anyone blindly. God gave us a brain and He expected us to use it. I'm so thankful for my Dad's wisdom and his teachings. I feel so sad for children whose parents failed them in this way and I'm so happy to read the testimonies of those who have been set free.

Amy has been through so much and is such a pure loving soul. Hearing her story made me cry so many times and I am so happy for her to be able to enjoy her new life. She is one of the most deserving people on this earth

It’s astounding how cruel Warren was to his family and followers 😢 Amy is a beautiful, strong woman ❤❤

Thank you again, GUIP and Amy for sharing your story. What a story-how one sinning man, perhaps mentally unstable almost from the start, drunk with power, and in the name of religion caused so much suffering and destruction. He violated so many innocent and trusting people. I live in Israel now, but I used to live in SLC and one time a young boy, maybe 13 or 14, came to visit my house with my friend's son. This boy lived with his mother and about 9 siblings in a tiny house down the street. On my table was a National Geographic magazine that had an article about Warren Jeffs in it. Later, after the boys had left, I noticed that this young man had taken a pen and had drawn a dark "X" over every photo of Warren Jeffs. I learned that his mother had somehow left the FLDS or had been kicked out and this boy was obviously filled with rage toward Warren Jeffs. I can't help wondering how many people have been hurt by this man. It must be a terrible sin to harm children and twist love of God for evil purposes like he has done. Congratulations on your freedom. Sometimes what seem like curses at the time, turn out to be blessings. It's lucky that you were sent far away in the end. You are beautiful and good. I pray that you will be blessed with every happiness this life can offer.

What an amazing lady!! I teared up when she talked about finally calling her mom, what a relief for them both for overcoming all the brainwashing and then follow their hearts to want to see each other again.

Dear Amy, I hope that you read these comments and that the comments warm your heart and remind you that there are so many people in this world who are cheering you on in your life. May life give you so much happiness.

NGL; I got a little teary eyed when Amy told the story of reuniting with her mother.

What a wonderful ending to begin a new life with someone who appreciates you and to have your mother's love with you as well, Amy!

Amy, the conclusion of this video series is so wonderful. You’ve found true love, reconnected with your family, and have claimed your freedom. Your story is incredibly heart wrenching but also shows how strong and resilient you are. You’re truly incredible and should be so proud of yourself.

I have, so, enjoyed listening to Amy's story. What an incredibly brave woman to be so open and honest so that the world can understand the PEOPLE of the FLDS and not just about Warren!!

After watching all 4 parts of Amy's story, I just have no words! What words can describe this incredible woman? Such a kind and gentle soul. I hope she is truly blessed every minute of the rest of her life!

Incredible story! Amy should write a book! I am now addicted to this channel. Amy is such a beautiful soul! Thank you, Sam and Melissa, for presenting these stories and trying to help those who are escaping this cult.

Oohh i just caught up with this last night. ❤🎉❤❤ thank you all so much for coming forward. Some of the children that were taken during the raid were placed in a children's home next to where we lived and I've been curious about this situation ever since.

At the beginning of the interview I didn't realize how recent your leaving the FLDS was. How you turned your life around is very inspiring. I hope you are truly happy from now on ✨❤️

Absolute power corrupts absolutely. No one can handle this kind of power including Warren.

What a harrowing story and I’m so glad she’s finding happiness and love after so many years of being hidden and made to feel ashamed. ❤ Everytime I hear stories of people who have left for escaped I am so amazed and they have endured so much and still have the strength to find positivity. I hope her story of survival and independence inspires anyone else trapped in a high-control or abusive situation. ❤

I feel like Warren made it worse and worse so they’d be too busy and distracted to realize he is where he belongs.

I've been binge listening to these episodes. Wow. Ada, you did what you had to do to survive in the moment and came out sane on the other side. You were a blessing to many in spite of terrible circumstances.

This lady is so strong. To hear her story and see where she is today is truly remarkable!

What a beautiful ending to Amy's story. I wish her all of the love and happiness in the world ❤

I am so happy to hear that Amy has found love in her new life away from the FLDS! I know the journey she went through must have been so difficult but seeing her face at the beginning as she recalls the wild on her face and saying “I’m free.” is so beautiful. I wish her all the best and I hope she gets her happily ever after 🥰

Amy you're such a strong woman. Warren did you favor when he sent you away! You found out how strong you are!! God bless you and thank you for sharing your story!

I am an avid taker in of other people's experiences. But I have to say, I can not recall one affecting me so much. Thank you so much Amy for being so brave, bold, and strong to share so much with us. Thank you Sam and Melissa for sharing her story on your channel with such empathy and understanding! I have to say, I am so grateful Melissa expressed every emotion I'm feeling (not counting the sobbing I'm only able to partake in while alone) and I greatly appreciate that. You are three of the best humans I have ever come across and you've taught me SO much over these last several hours. ❤ Wishing nothing but the best for you all and your loved ones!!

This interview was absolutely incredible. I loved how Amy could express the complexity of living in this situation. She shared happy memories and heart breaking memories. She’s so lovely. I hope all of these children she’s cared for over the years are able to connect with her one day. I’m sure they have happy memories of her.

The one thing that got my through all these videos is that Amy - you are such an amazingly loving person. You spent your life constantly caring for so many others. You absolutely deserve to live the rest of your life being loved and being happy. ❤ Consider the Appalachian mountains for some camping, it's beautiful out here!

Amy bless you heart for all you endured in your life. I am so grateful you finally found your voice and way out of this cult. I hope you are doing well today. ❤

Amy, you are an amazing woman and a human being. Thank you so much for your openness! Your shared story will help many others. I wish you happiness and all the good things in your life now!

Amy you are an inspiration to all of us.

Wow! Amy is so articulate and compassionate and kind. I’m so impressed with her ability to tell her story. Thanks for sharing this platform with her so we can all hear about this.

Wow guys. This may be your most impressive series of videos yet in my opinion. Thank you so much for giving Amy all the time she needed to tell her story in full, and for creating a space she felt safe enough to share it in. The platform you’ve created to share the stories of those who grew up in the FLDS or elsewhere is really really special, and one thing I think is part of why you’re so great is even though Sam left and Melissa was never there, you never judge people who stay, you never judge the guests when they’re brave enough to share things they did when they were there. Thank you for everything you do, it’s truly so valuable 💜 and if you see this Amy thank you so so so much for sharing your story. You’re absolutely beautiful and are clearly so kind and smart and I’m so glad you’re free!

Thank you so much for taking the time and care to do this interview with Amy and to not cut it down into one shorter video. Melissa and Sam, your compassion is noteworthy for the community surrounding the FLDS members who have left. ( I'm so glad Sam was brave enough at 18 to leave). Thank you also for educating others on this real situation. My heart and prayers are for complete healing, strength, and prosperity wherever they go.

Ada Marie, you share your beautiful mother’s eyes.❤ I very much appreciate your story and how you share your perspective so sweetly.

That mother/child bond ❤

Amy, you are such a strong person! Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Hearing what you have endured helps me have more compassion and understanding for others in closed societies. It took a lot of courage to share your experiences. I hope your life is full of joy going forward.

Amy, your story of STRENGTH is so powerful! How you managed to take care of so many people throughout your life while experiencing so much stress is beyond me. You are an amazing person. I'm so glad you have found your happiness and I wish you nothing but positivity.

Wow...what a journey she has had. So glad she broke free and is living her best life.

Incredible. But really, this ladies heart is beyond words and I just love how she has been able to move on ~ such an inspiration 🙏🏽💗💞

Incredible! Thank you all of you ❤

Thank you all for sharing this, and Amy (I hope I spelled your name right), I truly hope you can write a book about your experiences one day. I would buy it in a heartbeat! Words can’t express how proud and happy I am for you and your better present! Congratulations, you deserve that happiness! ❤❤❤

Amy is truly lovely in every way! I have enjoyed listening to her story and I am sorry for all the pain that she has endured, she has persevered well. She has wisdom now that no one can take away from her. Even as she speaks it is tangible in her persona. Blessings & Love to you Amy!

What a gracious and resilient soul. What an inspirational dtory.

This was so amazing to watch 😭 she’s so strong and beautiful! I’m amazed at how kind and caring she seems even after a lifetime of abuse. Thank you!

Thank you for giving her story the time it deserves. This was really interesting and inspiring. I hope the happiness that she has found continues

I’m so glad Amy has found healing and happiness. Such a beautiful ending.

So excited to hear the rest of the story🩷

This story is absolutely incredible. What an amazing women, with so much love to give. I am so proud of her and so happy she finally has a man to treat her with respect and love and not manipulation! ❤

Thank you, Amy! I really admire all the work you have clearly put in to try to find your true self. I wish you lots of happiness.

what an extraordinary woman. im so glad she was able to return to her heart. this was a fabulous series. thx for having this platform for her to share her story safely.

"is this Amy?" had me in tears!! ❤

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed hearing her story. She has such great story telling abilities and this innate gentleness that drew me in. I’m sorry she had to endure that terrible treatment by Warren Jeffs, but wow she turned out to be such a lovely person. Happy to hear she has moved on with her life and is living for herself now. Sending love from Southern California 💜

Amy, I just wish to send you love and appreciation for sharing your story in such brave detail, even the tough parts. You are truly a beautiful soul! You are such a sweet golden heart! Love and light to you and your loved ones!

Listening to this interview inspired me to call my mother.

Amy, you are so very brave and resilient. Thank you for sharing your story. You look just like your mom ❤

Wow Amy, what a story! I cried multiple times watching this! You are such an inspiration and beautiful person. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us ❤️

Thank you for sharing yourself with us. May you have peace and happiness the rest of your days.

This was an excellent series! I am so glad that Amy has found happiness after so much upheaval. What a strong lady!

What a wonderful series! I would be interested to know what Amy's view of faith in God is like now, too.

Amazing story. So happy for her new life.

Thank you Amy for sharing your story ❤

Thank you for sharing your story of life in the Jeff’s family. It is amazing how you have survived and I wish you all the best❤

What a story - Amy is amazing 👏 ❤

SO happy for you, Amy!!!❤🎉

What an amazing story and transition ❤

Amy, thank you for sharing your story. You are a strong remarkable woman who deserves all the happiness...

❤ was waiting for this

Thank you Amy for sharing, thank you Sam and Melissa for having the platform available for people to share. What an incredible story and a truly unique insight into the monster that is Warren Jeffs. Amy, you are a true survivor!

Wow! Amy you are such a beautiful and amazing women who has been through so much. Amazing and interesting 4 episodes!❤

Man, her story was amazing.

Wow! Sad, tragic and finally triumphant story. Glad she was brave enough to tell her story and shed light on life inside a polygamous cult. Hard to believe that is happening inside this country. If polygamy is illegal, how can that be allowed to continue?

Such an incredible series. Thank you for sharing all of this! Amy is an amazing woman, so strong, so brave!

I really enjoyed hearing Amy’s story and her, “New Beginnings”! She was the sweetest influence on all those precious children caught up in the spider web of modern polygamy. I’m a descendent of Mormon polygamists on all but one line. It was always a hard life style to live for men and women,( and the children). You are a true survivor,Amy! Bless you my dear.🤗💖

What a powerful story!

Thank you for sharing your story.

Wow! Outstanding interview

Thank you for sharing Amy! God bless you!

Warren knew where people were through his interactions with his messengers and the messengers interaction with the Bishops and the “presiding elders” on the lands of refuge or houses of hiding. Presiding elders and Bishops would communicate to Warren Jeffs through “letters of testimony” and Warren’s messengers. The presiding elders job was to report on the heads of households on the lands of refuge or houses of hiding to ensure that they were “keeping sweet”. Each presiding elder or Bishop knew who was in their group and how they were behaving. Information that would be passed eventually to Warren or one of his counselors.

46:54 - "GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR MOTHER!" WOW!!! - I am SO THANKFUL that happened for you.... my Mother and her dear sweet Mother Ruth didn't get that... I didn't realize it until sometime later due to later coming into communication with some of her other sisters... they had all got to say goodbye - and she didn't... THAT made me truly LIVID and Righteously F-ed OFF!! -I have never felt more deeply to Love, Honor, and appreciate my parents since then... I am lately understanding just how GOD LOVED and watched over our family and Grandmother Ruth was in EVERY possible moment the Guardian of Innocence - I ALSO SEE that it was truly the "UNanswered Prayers" that were THE greatest of God's gifts to me and my family thru all of this! God Bless my Father for staying TRUE to HIS honor to be a Father and Good Shepard of the gifts he forever acknowledges God Blessed him with - and God Bless my dear Mother for following her Heart back to who she has Always Loved!

Your line dance family loves you and Frank and are so happy for you both! So proud of you for doing these videos and being able to share your story and find your heart! ♥️ Ticia

Amy is so strong and it's wonderful to know that she's out now! I remember an episode from Escaping Polygamy - it still haunts me. One of Warren Jeff's sons, Isaac, tried to track down his mother who was sent away. They found her in NW Arkansas, working at a chicken processing plant. It was clear in the episode that Warren had treated her horribly yet she was still trying to repent (and was sending thousands of dollars to his supporters). I wonder if Amy knows what happened with her? She seemed like a gentle soul in the Escaping Polygamy episode, but was still very much under Warren's spell.

Amy, I am SO GLAD there's a happy conclusion to your heart-wrenching story!

Amy, you are a lovely woman and God bless you!

Wow! What a strong woman to go through all of that!! I enjoyed listening to her story, thank you for that interview Sam & Melissa.

I love love love this long form style of interview so much. Every time a video ended I was so happy to see a “to be continued..” Thank you so much Amy for sharing your story and thank you to the two of you for putting it all together. 🩷 Amy is so strong and amazing!!!

First I want to thank Amy so much for bravely coming out and sharing her story. I don't think we've ever gotten such a full and raw account like this from someone who was as close as one can be to Warren Jeffs all the way to the bitter end. My thoughts on this portion of the interview: (1) oh my GOODNESS I cannot believe Warren made his women be sexual with one another. I thought homosexuality was supposed to be a sin?? Why would he direct his women to do that? Rebecca Musser in her book kind of hinted at this but never outright stated it. But like... the whole heavenly sessions thing where the women are supposed to "excite each other to help them do better for Warren" like I didn't know if 'excite' referred to like... verbal support, or, I feared, physical stimulation - aka homoerotic sexual acts. But WOW it sure sounds like it was the second one. ESPECIALLY when she said that the heavenly sessions continued even AFTER Warren was in prison? So he just made the women have sex with each other? She said "one of the women would take the place of Warren" so like... what?? I thought homosexuality was supposed to be this huge huge sin that was so obviously sinful that no one even thought of being gay in the FLDS. And then here's Warren Jeffs making his wives have homoerotic sex rituals while he's not even there. My god. The man truly lost it. (2) So now we know why she left the faith... I kind of see two ways to look at it. One is like... she didn't really leave the faith, the faith left her. They banished her and she waited patiently for FIVE YEARS before even considering maybe this wasn't the right path for her. My goodness. It sounds like if they hadn't left her to rot, she might still be there. -- On the other hand, what I'm noticing as a common theme is... a lot of people's FLDS faith seems to start showing cracks right around the time when they start spending any meaningful amount of time with people outside the faith. Realizing 'hey these people aren't so bad.' It happened with you, Sam, too, right? On your job sites? (3) And she wouldn't have even needed to get that job if it wasn't for this whole "don't ask the priesthood for money" thing. Why was the priesthood suddenly so strapped for cash? Is it because they banished half of the top-brass men in the faith (not even counting all the lost boys) so there were no money makers even left in the religion? (4) The camera didn't zoom in on you in this moment, Sam, but I noticed, when Amy was talking about her second brother who committed suicide, you choked up and reached for that tissue. I get the sense that you must have people near and dear to you who you lost to suicide as well? You don't even have to answer that. Just know I saw you and understood your feeling in that moment. If that's something you'd ever be comfortable speaking on - suicidal ideation among FLDS men/lost boys, that would be a topic I'd be very interested in hearing more about. If it's too personal I understand.

Such an emotional and inspiring story. I wish You all love and happiness ❤

I can't even imagine what you went through... I'm so proud of you for leaving. Take care and God Bless 💖

What an amazing, brave and beautiful soul. Amy is my hero. Sam and Melissa thank you so much for bringing the stories to the forefront. I have so much gratitude and love for both of you. ❤️❤️

I'm so glad to hear the end of this video that Amy is finally free and making a path for herself. So sad that she was confined to the Warren Jeff's cult for so many years.