I have just decided to come clean I’ve been hiding it for too long trying to pretend it didn’t happen to me and it can’t go on. I don’t have a lot of people I feel comfortable yet to talk to so here it goes. I was kinda into this guy who worked with me he was nice and friendly and made me feel special. One day I was at his desk and I “forgot” my phone case when I had taken it off. I later found he stole it on purpose. And he told me on our day off I could pick it up. So I went to his place and got my phone case when he offered me a water bottle. I didn’t think much of it but after a few seconds I got dizzy and blacked out. I don’t know if any part of me was conscious but I don’t remember anything until I woke up later that day on his floor naked. I felt so ashamed but mostly sick I hurt all over and I got dressed and ran out of there as he was no where to be found. When I got home I cried but I didn’t really comprehend what happened until a day or two after that. I still get that feeling of being ashamed like I’m dirty, I know there’s nothing now to do about it. But if I could do over one thing it would be to report it I just wanted to forget it and that was wrong.
– Survivor, age 20
Dear survivor,
Your response to this is very common and I hope you find comfort knowing that you are not alone in that. That said, there is nothing you have to be ashamed of. The shame is all his, but I certainly understand why you feel this way. I hope that sharing your story here brings you some peace. You are beautiful inside and out, everyday, but especially on days when you don’t feel that way. You are very brave. Light and love, Alissa