Stop Abuse

Last week I went to a meeting at the library for Utah's Coalition Against Domestic Violence. I've never attended anything the city has put on before, but because of my most recent assignment I had a chance to experience something so sweet. I wasn't touched by so much what was said but more of what I saw. It broke my heart and my eyes were swelling up with tears in no time. After the candles had been lit I was able to talk to some of the women and I quickly became so grateful for my loving family and environment that I have in my life. Im really happy I was able to be apart of this sweet meeting. If you want to learn more about what you can do to help check it out here.

Jocelyn-

She's a friend of mine who is a victim of sexual assault.

'On August 28, 2009, as I was walking to my car, I never thought I would become a victim of sexual assault. At that moment, when an African-American man came up behind me, time stood still. I was kidnapped and raped, then in a high-speed chase until the cops ran us down in someone's front yard. The man ran away, leaving me there with the police. I was taken to the emergency room and my life was forever changed. Over two years later I have done what I could to not let this event define who I am. I have chosen to use my story to help others. They have since found the person who raped me and I have pressed charges. I am currently waiting to see if he takes a plea bargain, or if I have to go back to Arkansas and testify in court. It has brought all of the feelings back and I feel like I'm reliving it again, but I can get through this. I know that it will all be over soon, one way or another, and that I can continue using my story to help strengthen others. '