When we are sexually assaulted, it takes something from us, and for most people, being sexually assaulted takes a lot from you. We start to live in fear of it happening again, unsure of who to trust or where to go. We spend hours checking and re-checking locks and windows to try to keep ourselves safe. Withdraw from those we once loved or thought we trusted, withdraw from others because we don't know who is safe and who isn't. Sexual assault drastically changes the way we view the world and ourselves within that world. 

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If all of that wasn't enough, we then need to deal with the stigma and the victim blaming mentality of so many people in our society. Years of being told not to wear shorts skirts, dresses or clothes that show off too much skin because it makes us vulnerable, being told to never go outside after dark alone because you might be a target, constantly needing to change what we do, what we wear, where we go just to keep ourselves safe. You know what the number one deterrent of sexual violence is? People not sexually assaulting us. 

It doesn't matter what you wear, whether or not you consumed drugs or alcohol, whether you got in that persons car or went to their house, none of these are reasons for someone to assault you and I am truly so very sorry that happened. I want you to know what happened is not your fault, even though you may feel that way.  

I have spent years dedicating my practice and my career to supporting and advocating for individuals who have experienced sexual violence. I have sat through multiple police statements as a support person, been with multiple individuals through the examination process at the hospital and advocated for so many individuals who were not sure where to turn to, or what to do next. Navigating the systems