Ellen Szita's childhood education never uncovered the fact that she had a learning disability and she grew up without ever learning to read, write or calculate beyond the most basic level. An early marriage and a middle-class lifestyle enabled her to hide the fact that she was functionally illiterate from everyone, including her husband and children. But, as Ellen's life became more complex and demanding, she suffered increasing frustration, isolation and low self-esteem. Only after the break-up of her marriage did she face the reality of her life: she was an alcoholic on welfare with no prospects for the future. Ellen's Story recounts her past and shows how she ultimately found the courage to admit her problems and take the first steps towards changing her life.