Stories related to Sexual Assault

Barbara survived sexual assault at age 14 and then survived a long cycle of abusive relationships. After years of hard work with a trauma therapist, she is free and volunteers every week to help other survivors.

Laura has suffered for 26 years with mental and physical illness that left her feeling worthless and alone. After many treatments and medications, the length and severity of her suffering led her to a better understanding of herself and the world around her.

Carol learned to set her own boundaries—to name them and to keep them. She learned the importance of cultivating relationships and nourishing love. Most importantly, she learned that her journey is one of constant transformation.

While stuck in a cycle of self-injurious behavior, Elsie realized the people they had surrounded themself with—and even called friends—didn’t care about their well-being. It wasn’t until a selfless stranger made sure Elsie was safe one drunken night that they realized something needed to change.

Richard was homeless, a convicted bank robber, an addict, and the father of a deceased child. Today he is a student, a community advocate, a volunteer, and a mentor to those in need. His recovery journey has made him into the person he is proud to be today.

Annette’s upbringing and her 17 years of service in the military made Annette believe she had to hide her emotions and suffer silently. Surviving a fatal car crash gave her the desire to embrace her journey and help others do the same.

Anita had always been empathetic and spent her life taking care of the needs of others—her father, her ex-husband, her boyfriend. Finally, Anita realized she needed to take care of herself too.

After Melissa was sexually assaulted in her own home, she was let down – and effectively revictimized – by those who were supposed to advocate for her. But she has since found focus, purpose, and community as a foster for dogs who depend on her to advocate for them.