Mia Smith is the protagonist of the Lifetime movie Girl in the Closet, which premiered on March 11, 2023. The movie is based on the true story of Lauren Kavanaugh, who was abused and kept in a closet for six years by her biological parents. Mia Smith is played by Tami Roman, a reality TV star and actress who is best known for her roles in Basketball Wives and The Real World.
Mia Smith’s Horrific Childhood
Mia Smith was born to Barbara and Kenneth Atkinson, who initially gave her up for adoption. However, they regained custody of her when she was eight months old, after the adoptive parents failed to sign a crucial document. Mia’s parents then subjected her to unimaginable torture and neglect. They locked her in a closet, where she lived in her own filth and was only taken out to be physically and sexually abused by them and other pedophiles. Mia’s parents also had five other children, who were also mistreated but not as severely as Mia.
Mia’s ordeal came to an end when she was eight years old, after the police received a tip from a relative about the abuse. The police found Mia in the closet, severely malnourished and stunted. She weighed only 25 pounds and had the mental capacity of a two-year-old. She was given the nickname “the girl in the closet” by the media.
Mia Smith’s Recovery and Adoption
Mia Smith was rescued from her parents and taken to a hospital, where she received medical and psychological treatment. She was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. She also had to undergo several surgeries to correct her physical deformities and injuries. Mia’s parents were arrested and sentenced to life in prison.
Mia Smith was then adopted by Bill and Sabrina Kavanaugh, who had initially tried to adopt her before her parents took her back. The Kavanaughs gave Mia a loving and supportive home, where she was able to heal and grow. They also helped her with her education and social skills. Mia was able to graduate from high school and attend college.
Mia Smith’s Success and Advocacy
Mia Smith did not let her past define her. She used her experience to inspire and empower others. She became a successful businesswoman, who founded a company that provides online courses and coaching for women entrepreneurs. She also became an advocate for women’s rights and child abuse prevention. She wrote a book about her life story, titled The Girl in the Closet: How I Survived and Thrived After Years of Abuse. She also gave speeches and interviews, sharing her message of hope and resilience.
Mia Smith is a role model for many women who have faced adversity and overcome it. She is a testament to the human spirit and the power of love. She is the hero of her own Lifetime movie.