My story starts two and a half years ago. I went to the ER for a medical condition and ended up being sexually assaulted. As you can imagine that is not the course I thought my medical examination would go. After reporting it to the hospital, I reported it to the police. The police officer was a wonderful young man. I felt heard and supported. However, due to lack of evidence, my abuser was not convicted for his crime. I did everything I could think of to prevent this event from happening to another person. However, due to lack of support from the administration, another individual was assaulted.
It has been a little over 2.5 years. I still have my struggles. I am always nervous around medical professionals. Thankfully, every medical professional I have met since this event have been fantastic individuals who work hard to support me. They are typically horrified that a medical professional would do such a thing and always make accommodations to help me be more at ease.
I went to an IOP (intensive outpatient program) to help me start navigating my new normal. During that time a woman said, “I do not believe I was raped for a reason. I do believe I survived for a reason.” I have never forgotten this. I have used this statement to help me keep fighting the injustice of sexual violence. I have submitted legislative change regulations for medical professionals. I have also started a nonprofit organization to attempt to help other victims / survivors adapt and work through their new normal.
Thank you for giving me space to share my story.