Below is the first submission to the Community Forum for Survivors submitted anonymously on 10/5/2018.

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: 8

The survivor's age now: 60

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

"My father’s father sexually abused me. I didn't have memories of this until I was in my twenties. I only told my sister (who was also abused by him) and mother.

My mom told my aunt. At my grandfather’s funeral, my aunt said I should forgive him. My mother also told all of our other relatives which made me feel ashamed.

In my twenties, a supervisor drugged my drink and he attempted to rape me. I only told a nurse practitioner who was treating me for depression and PTSD. I felt it was my fault because I was drinking with him. I didn't seek counseling until I was in my forties."

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.