Domestic violence traps millions in fear and hardship, often making it difficult to break free and start fresh. Cara Brookins’s story is a remarkable example of courage and determination in the face of such challenges. A survivor of a long-term abusive relationship, Cara made a bold decision that changed everything for her and her four children.
In 2008, after enduring years of violence and control, Cara took her children and fled to safety. With limited resources and nowhere big enough to live, they settled temporarily in a small rented cabin near Little Rock, Arkansas. One day during a drive around the area, Cara spotted a house destroyed by a tornado. Though it was beyond her means to buy, the sight sparked a dream: what if she could build a new home, one strong and safe enough for her family?
Driven by this vision, Cara bravely embarked on an incredible journey. Without any prior construction experience, she and her children began educating themselves by watching YouTube tutorials and seeking advice from local craftsmen willing to lend a hand. Over nine months, the family worked tirelessly to build a 3,500-square-foot home from the ground up, ensuring each child had their own room and a place to call their own.
The road was not easy. Cara negotiated a construction loan despite skepticism, tackled unfamiliar tasks, and faced physical and emotional exhaustion. Her children contributed wherever they could — doing tasks often beyond their age — while keeping spirits high during the grueling process. There were days of doubt and hardship, but the family’s resilience and love kept them moving forward.
Their story eventually captured hearts worldwide, viewed billions of times across more than 75 countries, inspiring countless others with its message of hope and strength. Cara documented her experience in her bestselling memoir, Rise: How a House Built a Family, sharing personal reflections and the powerful transformation her family underwent.
Today, Cara and her children live in their dream home, a sanctuary built not just with nails and wood but with courage, unity, and unyielding determination. Their journey is a beacon of hope to survivors everywhere, proving that even after the darkest times, it’s possible to rebuild, heal, and thrive.
