I owe a lot to StrengthUnited, my life, my sanity, my healing, my empowerment as a female and contributor to my community, the love to continue to grow and find hope and spread hope. 
At 33 I thought I was too old and it was too late to seek help. I was ashamed and guilty and was on the floor planning a way out of this world for months, I felt dead inside. I heard about SU through work and I didn't know how I could keep this from becoming public, that a damaged 33 year old woman was seeking safety from her abuser, her past, herself. SU called me a day or 2 after I made the first call, my therapist called me and set up a meeting. My answer to everything was "I'm fine". So many things came up, but she was gentle, patient, understanding and she helped me peel back the layers of my childhood sexual trauma, deal with my DV situation at the time, get through my suicidal thoughts, helped get counseling for my kids, a parenting coach, an advocate that would accompany me to terrifying court dates. The advocate suggested I attend community workshops that would open my eyes to leadership roles, how I can give back to my community just by sharing my story. I thought that would be a mistake, how could I share my story, my family and friends would know, but I never imagined where it would take me. I still have the same therapist now, even after taking a break [from therapy] for a few years. I am co-chair of a survivor-led leadership group, Voices United, the first San Fernando Valley (SFV) Voices chapter, which is part of an International VOICES network through Alliance for Hope. I am an L. A and SFV member of CSSJ (Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice) I know my story can help others find their own Voice. The only regret I have is not looking or asking for help sooner.