04/11/2025
This is not easy to share. I am someone who keeps my private life close, and speaking about this publicly is difficult. But I have spoken with people I trust, and they reminded me that sharing our stories can help others feel less alone. So I’m sharing this with intention, not for sympathy, but because silence can be heavy.
Almost twenty years ago, I survived something that nearly ended my life. I was far from home, away from my family, and I was hurt by someone who was supposed to care for me. I remember sitting in a hospital, bruised and terrified, being asked, “What did you do?” — as though any of it could have been my fault. I truly didn’t know if I would make it home. But I did. I rebuilt my life with love, purpose, and people who showed me what safe connection looks like.
I am not ashamed of what happened. The shame never belonged to me.
But this week, the person who hurt me found me online and commented on our charity’s page — expressing pride in what we’ve built. And even after all these years of healing, that shook my sense of safety.
I don’t hold hatred. I don’t carry anger. I simply have boundaries. I choose a life where I am safe, respected, and able to stand in my own story.
Our charity supports people escaping family and domestic violence, helping them keep their pets when everything else feels unstable. We see how deeply this affects the body, the spirit, and the sense of safety. Privacy, dignity and sensitivity matter. No one deserves to be unsafe — not people, and not the animals who bring them love and comfort.
I am also lucky to walk alongside organisations who work tirelessly to protect others. We do this together, because we understand the weight of it.
So I want to say this clearly: You are not alone. Your story is yours. Your safety matters.
I am proud of who I am. I am proud of this organisation. And I am proud that I survived and continue to be someone who protects others.
Thank you to everyone who walks beside us with care and respect.
I am here. I am safe. I am moving forward. And I’m grateful to have Digga and Nelson and our community by my side. xox
