Daily life and routine of my incarceration for the first four weeks since I got here
G. D. C. G. D. C.
Grace, Dignity, and Compassion
The First 28 Days Down

by Gina Pendergraph

Hey there, everyone! I thought I would give you a glimpse into the daily life and routine of  my incarceration for the first four weeks since I got here. It’s a perspective often overlooked but one that holds stories of resilience, growth, and even moments of celebration amidst adversity. More of those stories, in better detail, coming soon!

Recently, I received several letters that I haven’t been able to respond to due to the unavailability of stamps. It’s been frustrating not being able to communicate directly, but let me walk you through what my days have been like since I began this journey:


May:

  • 5/20: Surrender Day. Got my PAC/PIN and TB test.
  • 5/21: First commissary trip. Added contacts and filled out surveys.
  • 5/22: Received uniforms and cleared by Psych.
  • 5/23: Cleared by Dental.
  • 5/25: Attended “Talk to Your Doctor” FSA class.
  • 5/26: Enjoyed a video visit with Serenity Sistas and learned Spades.
  • 5/27: Memorial Day celebration with popcorn, snow cones, and kickball.
  • 5/29: Celebrated my 55th birthday with a lengthy medical check-up.
  • 5/30: Cleared by Education and completed a dyslexia test. Walked 73 laps, totaling 27.375 miles.

June:

  • 6/1: Started “Embracing Interfaith” FSA class.
  • 6/2: Another video visit with Serenity Sistas. Walked 8 miles but unfortunately sprained my ankle.
  • 6/3-6/6: Experienced a period of lockdown.
  • 6/6: Updated my address for release and had my first TEAMS meeting, focusing on a Finance and Poverty class.
  • 6/8: Continued with the “Embracing Interfaith” class.
  • 6/10: Embarked on “The Purpose Driven Life,” a 40-day class based on Rick Warren’s book.
  • 6/12: Finally got new shoes after some shopping and sent an email to the Warden about the stamp issue.
  • 6/13: Participated in A&O and had x-rays on my feet, followed by a SafeTALK class.
  • 6/14: Started my assigned work, cleaning both the FCI II lobby and the Central Administration Building.
  • 6/15: Wrapped up the “Embracing Interfaith” class.
  • 6/16: Celebrated completing four weeks with a big WHOOP WHOOP!

Throughout this time, I’ve completed two FSA classes and enrolled in several others, keeping my days busy with learning and growth.


This life presents its own set of challenges, but it’s also a period where personal development and self-discovery can flourish. Each day brings new experiences and opportunities to learn, whether through classes, interactions with peers, or personal reflections. Despite the setbacks, like the temporary lack of stamps for correspondence, each achievement and milestone is a step closer to home.

I hope this glimpse into my daily routine sheds light on a perspective often unseen. Stay tuned for more updates and stories from this journey. Until next time!

 

With Grace Dignity and Compassion,

 

Gina