Almost a year has gone by since CBC published my story and since then the public’s response has been overwhelming. I’ve received hundreds of emails from people all over Canada, many of them detailing their own stories of trauma and struggling with the symptoms of PTSD. I realize now, without a doubt, there is an epidemic of physical and sexual abuse in our communities and far too few places for survivors to turn.

If there is one thing I’ve learned is that healing cannot begin in silence. Survivors need to speak up and be counted. Start by telling a confidante or a loved one or someone you trust what is really going on. And if you feel like you have no one to turn to, then come to me. I have a large support network ready to help anyone who needs it and the means to help you access life changing counselling and therapies.

In the meantime, I invite you to revisit my own story and should it inspire you to reach out to me, don’t hesitate to email me at andrea@scratchrecovery.com or call me directly at (226) 678-1497