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I Didn’t Understand
My story begins when I was 8 years old. My stepfather, who once seemed like a caring, amazing man turned into a monster. He became emotionally, physically, and sexually abusive. It lasted until I was 14 years old. I was so young and didn’t understand it, but I was too scared to speak up due to the threats I received.
What pushed me to tell someone was the birth of my baby brother. He was so young and innocent to the world and I didn’t want to see him raised in such an environment. I eventually spoke to CPS about the situation and they helped to resolve the situation.
I am now 27 years old and in a very good place. I gave myself the okay to move on and to live life to the fullest without carrying around the shame and hurt. It truly sets you free!
-Emily, Survivor
OTHER SURVIVOR STORIES
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I Am a Woman Full of Hope
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Since We Only Have One Heart
![](https://z5i2z2q6.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/For-Years-I-Was-An-Empty-Shell.jpeg.webp)