Our Stories

Bretany, 20 Surviving Sexual Abuse , Age: 20

What have you struggled with? When did it become too much?

I was sexually abused by a family member for ten years, I fought through suicidal tendencies and I still fight through depression and anxiety. My turning point happened only a few month ago with I was 19.

What kind of support did you get at first? Did it work?

Support was no where to be found. I felt like no one cared. But then I realized, in order for other people to care, I had to care also.

Were there any turning points where things really started to change for the better?

Yes, as soon as I stuck my head up and decided to make differences for myself.

What’s your life like now? What have you been able to accomplish, and what are you working towards?

I’m in my second semester of Journalism at SAIT in Calgary, AB. I go out more and I’m working toward losing my depression weight.

What would you say to people who are having a tough time? What’s helped you that you wish you had known earlier

You’re not alone. It doesn’t get better, you just get stronger. You learn to cope, you start to understand things a little more. Your hearts starts to grow, leaving room for forgiveness to those who do you wrong.