Contributor: Harlee Lowder
Is this your first time sharing your experience?
No
Have you been a victim of violence of any of the following?
Rape, Molestation
Did you know your assailant?
Yes
If so, how long before the experience?
11+ years
Did you report the experience?
Yes
Was the individual(s) convicted and sentenced?
No
Please share the details of your experience as you feel comfortable:
When I was a child, I endured the repeated molestation of my babysitter, the teenage girl next door. Years later, at 13, my father raped me and ended up going missing. A week later, he was found dead. He’s hung himself from a tree in Oklahoma where he was living at the time.
For years after, I was in and out of depression. I spent years jumping from relationship to relationship, my family dynamic was crumbling, and I was searching for purpose. Once I began expressing myself; voicing my pain and my struggles; and looking to God for guidance, my healing began. Now I am 27, full of joy and courage living my life with the strength to fully enjoy it.
This is only a snippet of my story, because what words can really express the blur we experience as survivors of such traumas? This is however MY story and I will make in known always, this trauma was never the end of me; I am alive, well and walking through each day encouraged.
How has this experience impacted you and your relationship(s) with family, friends, co-workers, etc.?
Family life was difficult in the beginning. As each person was working through the pain, now we had to come together in hopes to rebuild relationships. My friends became my family as they covered me in love and encouraged me to have hope.
Were you initially hesitant to come forward in sharing with us?
No
If so, what made you reconsider?
N/A
If you could return to a time before the experience, what advice would you tell yourself and/or your parents?
I would tell myself to take a deep breath and pray. I would tell my mother although she may not have all of the answers, just remain present. I would tell my father I loved him for the last time.
What one piece of advice for women who have experienced violence or assault?
DO NOT hesitate to stand and speak your truth.
