10/14/2025
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to remember, educate, and bring healing to our homes and communities. As a survivor of both domestic violence and sexual assault, I use my platform to shed light on these issues—not because it is easy, but because it is necessary.
My journey has not been without scars. My abuse left me battling PTSD, anxiety, and depression—struggles that consumed so much of my life. But I share this because I want our future to be different. I want healing to begin now—for ourselves, our families, and our community.
I was humbled when the Charles County Sheriff’s Department invited me to speak at their 2nd Annual Purple Lights Night. Last year, I was honored to serve as their Keynote Speaker. This year, I stood beside their brave Keynote Speaker, Nicole, as she shared her story publicly for the first time. It was a powerful reminder that survivors are never alone—and that there is life after DV.
What I did not expect was to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for my advocacy on behalf of victims. That moment moved me to tears. I don’t do this work for recognition. I do it to help someone find hope, to help someone begin to heal, and to pray that others will never have to experience what once consumed me.
Although the physical scars faded, the mental and emotional impact can last a lifetime. Yet, we do not have to stay in that pain. There is help. There are resources. There is hope. And together, we can make a difference.
💜 If you’d like to see my speech from last year, here is the link: https://youtu.be/I394B7vn6p0?si=gDj7n1Xb1xkn5Ybu
