When I was 9 years old I suffered sexual abuse at the ends of my step father. While I was too young to do anything I knew somewhere in my heart that it was wrong, but he fed me the same story we have heard time and again, “don’t tell anyone”. I bought into it for years. Then as I got older and got more and more into drugs I was raped at the age of 17. If there was anyone who needed treatment for sexual abuse it was me, but the idea of getting sexual abuse treatment was overwhelming and terrifying.

Well when my heroin addiction spun out of control and I was ready for a rehab center and as soon as they heard my history they indicated the need for treatment for sexual abuse. I freaked out and told them straight out I didn’t need sexual abuse treatment just help me with my heroin addiction. After two relapses and several failed relationships I surrendered and came back to the rehab center. This time I was there for sexual abuse treatment. Still terrified, with their support I moved through it.

Years later after treatment for sexual abuse I still have thoughts about my past, but it does not control me. I visit the rehab center frequently to carry the message and give thanks for giving me my life back.