Anniversary

[auraesque]

Five years ago today, I was raped.

Consider this your trigger warning.

It wasn't gray rape. It wasn't date rape. It wasn't “rape rape.” It was just rape.

The details aren't really important. You're just going to have to take my word for it.

But here are some things that happened as a result of it.

Comments

[paksenarrion2]

Thank you for writing this. It has only been in the past few years I have been able to open up at all about my rape, which occurred 28 years ago at college. I didn't think it was rape at the time because-well how could it be? I was dating the guy. That was the culture. When I tried to report it, it was brushed off because I was dating the guy and "everyone knows only strangers are rapists." I am glad you had support from some friends, the college and the cops. And to heck with anyone that is uncomfortable with you if you want to talk about it or attempts to shut you down. Those people that didn't want to be your friend anymore? That is their loss.

[heddychaa]

Thank you for sharing this. Even 10 years on, seeing other women being so brave and powerful and speaking openly this way gives me a little bit more strength. I don't really know what to say, reading this, but I just wanted you to know I'm listening and I'm there with you every single day even though we don't know each other in person.

[azureeve]

I want to say thank you for writing this, as I don't follow your life closely, but I do remember coming across bits and pieces of what had happened, and I'm glad to see your perspective and hear your experience years afterwards. The other thing is...I'm really appalled to see how the legal system allows cases like these to slip by without justice, but I also recall a number of other accounts years ago where nothing was done legally, or if an attempt was made, nothing happened. It's quite disturbing.

[anonymous]

First, my sympathies for what you've gone through. It is clear that it would be an understatement to say that these past years have been difficult for you, and I applaud you for trying to raise awareness and encourage victims and allies alike to "stand up

[auraesque]

Thank you for your comment

[drachemaedchen]

Continued best wishes in your continuing recovery, and thank you for posting

[drachemaedchen]

I forgot to mention, I also have really long heavy periods. I'd go back on The Pill or something but when I was on it I was depressed enough that I went on Lexipro for a couple of years. When I stopped taking the pill I stopped needing depression meds. I'm afraid if I try to handle my period with hormones it'll happen again. :(