This one is very personal for me. ?

On October 17th, Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse is holding Footsteps for Healing, a community walk at Reid Park honoring survivors and families whose lives have been impacted by violence.

I’m hoping to be there not only to walk, but to volunteer and be part of something that means more to me than I can really put into words.

Some of you know my story, and some of you may only know pieces of it. I spent years of my life experiencing domestic violence and abuse. There were years of hurt, fear, survival, and things that I don't always talk about.

But I'm still here.

And healing doesn't mean that those years never happened. It means they don't get to define the rest of my life.

That's why Footsteps for Healing hits so close to home for me. Every step represents someone who survived. Someone still trying to find their way out. Someone learning how to live without fear. Someone rebuilding a life after abuse. And sadly, it also represents those who never got that chance.

So I'm asking my family and friends to come out and support this event with me. Walk with me. Volunteer. Bring your family. Or simply come out and stand beside the survivors in our community.

You don't have to have experienced domestic violence yourself to show someone who has that they are seen, believed, supported, and not alone. 

I'm walking for who I was. I'm walking for who I am today. I'm walking for every person who is still trying to find their way to safety.

And I would love for you to walk beside me. ?

For me, having the people I love there would mean more than you probably realize. ?

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!