Below is the ninth submission to the Community Forum for Survivors submitted anonymously on 10/6/2018.We appreciate the trust this survivor, and all survivors, place in us by sharing their stories. Note: MCRCC does not allow comments on blog posts.

Survivor’s gender identity: Female

The survivor’s age at the time sexual violence was perpetrated against them: 16

The survivor's age now: 43

The survivor’s description of sexual violence perpetrated against them:

"I was raped by a stranger, a man a friend of mine had just met. I didn't report because I was ashamed that I had not been more cautious- that it was my fault. My best friend, who was there when it happened, was already a survivor and didn't have the tools to help me. She was only 18. My mom, who I saw the next day, I didn't tell either, because she was also a survivor and still blamed herself for what happened to her. I was afraid she would judge me too. I waited four years to tell anyone, and when I finally told my parents, I regretted that I did. They made me feel worse."

If you or someone you care about has been sexually assaulted and is looking for resources or support, MCRCC provides a confidential helpline available 24/7 at (831) 375-4357. We support survivors today and always.