Survivor Spotlight: Tasha’s story
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Tasha* called Sojourner’s 24-hour hotline in late 2020. She said that several weeks prior, she’d been sexually assaulted during a break-in. The experience was terrifying and traumatic. It had been a month since the attack and her fear and anxiety were unbearable.
She knew she needed support.
Tasha bravely shared her experience with the Hotline Advocate. She said she no longer felt safe in her home, but she also was afraid to leave the house for work or to run errands. She was afraid the assailants would return to hurt her again – or worse.
It took tremendous courage for Tasha to call Sojourner.
Making the initial call was scary, but the kind, concerned voice on the line helped her feel better. The Hotline Advocate connected Tasha with another Sojourner Advocate who helped her understand her options and navigate Milwaukee’s criminal justice system.
Tasha was concerned that her fear of leaving her home would jeopardize her job. With help from Sojourner, Tasha purchased a home security system, which gave her peace of mind. Tasha felt safer knowing she could check her security cameras at any time and that her home was secure.
The Sojourner Advocate also helped Tasha find health care. She had blamed herself for the break-in and was too embarrassed to get help. Tasha had not received any medical attention for her injuries or seen a counselor to process what had happened. Her Advocate listened without judgement and assured her the attack was not her fault. Tasha gratefully accepted her Advocate’s referrals to see a doctor and begin counseling. She excitedly called her Advocate the day she scheduled her first doctor’s appointment.
It’s been over 6 months since Tasha’s initial call to Sojourner and she continues her journey towards healing. She says she feels supported and appreciates knowing Sojourner is here for her.
“I went from feeling hopeless to feeling hopeful,” she said. “I’m proud to transform my trauma into something powerful.”
*Name changed for confidentiality and safety.
You’re not alone. It’s not your fault. We’re here to help.
If you or someone you know is being hurt from domestic abuse, sexual assault or human trafficking/exploitation, contact Sojourner’s 24-hour hotline to speak with an Advocate today. Call (414) 933-2722 or text (414) 877-8100. Services are free, confidential and available in English, Spanish, Russian and Hmong.