Traumatic birth leads former cult members to escape Waco community

Six former members of Homestead Heritage, a conservative religious community in Waco, Texas, shared their traumatic experiences of leaving the church as adults. They described the community as a 'cult' that severely restricted education, medical access, and personal freedoms. Two women filed a complaint against the community's midwife, Amanda Lancaster, alleging she practiced medicine illegally and caused long-term birth injuries. Lancaster expressed regret over their feelings but denied any wrongdoing. The former members recounted their struggles, including Noa Haugh, who suffered a severe tear during childbirth and was left traumatized by the experience. Morning Alexander, another former member, left the community in 2018 after disagreeing with its corporal punishment practices. She had received a GED, thanks to her parents, which helped her pursue nursing after leaving. The fear of speaking out was prevalent within the community, with members believing that leaving could lead to dire consequences. Morning described the isolation felt when encountering former friends or family members who remained in the church, as they often viewed her as an enemy. This fear and control over personal lives contributed to the emotional turmoil experienced by those who sought to escape. Ultimately, the former members' stories highlight the psychological and physical trauma inflicted by the community's strict rules and lack of support. Their experiences underscore the importance of autonomy and access to proper medical care, as well as the need for awareness about the dangers of such isolated religious groups.