My life started out with having a grandfather abuse me when I was 3 years old; then the abuse continued through the next generation by my older male cousins.

When I was 12 years old, I lost my virginity through rape. Then again, at 18 years old, I was raped by a stranger. At 23 years old, I was raped by my employer.

Recently, at 48 years of age, I was raped by my ex-partners best friend.

Mostly I have discovered that my experience does not define me.

I deal with my PTSD a day at a time.

I was blessed to find the rooms of AA and recovery.

For the past 13 years I have been in and out of recovery. Today I pray to God that I am relieved of my pain and restored to sanity.

In my past, I lost the will to live many times but somehow I always fought back when I found recovery at my rock bottom. The fellowship and God loved me back to life.

I see professional help as well. And I keep my life simple.

Today I am a strong women with freedom and love in my heart.