A VICITIM STORY

When Michele was 21 years old, she went on vacation with her boyfriend whom she had been dating for about 11 months. Michele had been told that a group of her friends would go on the vacation with Michele and her boyfriend, but it ended up being just Michele and her boyfriend. While on vacation, Michele’s boyfriend bought her lingerie and told her to wear it for him. She refused, and he proceeded to rape her. At first, Michele felt really weak and was afraid to speak up and tell her story. She felt as though she had done something wrong. She met with 3 different counselors in order to deal with anxiety attacks and stress. Michele never reported the rape, but now, 15 years later, she is stronger. She gives public speeches and shares her story with high school students. Michele wants young people to know that date rape is a very common occurrence. Victims should not be afraid to speak up and report the rape. It is important to go to a hospital and get DNA evidence right after a rape. Rape victims should not feel alone because crisis healthcare centers have counselors and people who can stay with the victim so he or she can deal with the trauma. Victims must report the rape in order to stop the rapist from doing it again. The best way to help is to speak up!