Dear Nikki

by NIKKI MERRITT

A few summers ago while at a beach party with some friends, I was raped. I never reported it because I thought I could just get over it. I had been molested by an uncle when I was a small child, and I seemed to be able to just forget about it. But, now I am in a serious relationship with this guy, and he wants to have sex. The problem is I can't stand to have him touch me. I don't trust anybody anymore. I am so unhappy. This depression is tearing me apart. I don't know what to do or who I can talk to. I can't take this anymore. This is no way to life my life. Please help me.

Truly,

End of my Rope

Dear End of my Rope,

This is definitely a serious issue. I chose to post your e-mail out of the others because this is something that thousands of women, and even many men, deal with. Rape is the most unreported crime in America. Only one in ten survivors turn report their attacks.

Victims of sexual assault often feel guilt and extreme shame. After a violation of this kind, it is not a surprise you have trust issues. It is undoubtedly hard for you to believe that someone won't hurt you again after all that has happened. The truth is that there are good people out there who just want to love you. There is always a chance that you might be hurt, but you have to be strong and have faith in yourself and others. When hope dies so do we. Life is what you make of it. You can choose to let your fears crush you, or you can be the strong and courageous person I know you are. Pick up the pieces and build a new life.

Finally, I must urge you to seek help. You can contact Radford University's counseling center at 831-6525. Their offices are located in the basement of Tyler Hall. Visits are free of charge. You can also call the rape crisis center hotline at 639-1123 or the Sexual Assault Prevention number at 831-5709.

May God love and keep you always. You heart's healing is in my prayers.

Name:   

E-Mail: 
Year:   

Major:  

Comments:

Name: George
Major: Criminal Justice
Comments:
Dear End of My Rope, It honestly sounds like you've been through more than many of us can handle. I applaud Nikki for her concern. But since I'm a guy let me set the record straight so that you don't view my comments as biased. For the past two years, I've taught UNIV 100 and although at times it was fun, it had its serious moments. I had a student who was sexually assaulted while here at Radford. I know this is not the same situation as yours but it affected me really bad. I was forced to seek help from the counseling center for the following semester because I really didn't know how to handle it. Today, that student is a successful student leader and although I wenth through a lot for her, I'm proud to have been her FRIEND. Since I went through this ordeal with her I've learned a lot. I've even learned how to open my heart to those who have been through similar situations as yours. This world is filled with a lot of open hearts that give happiness and joy. As a matter of fact there is no better time than now to enjoy this. You have to look up and keep your head up high. there are many things in our lives that are hard to get over. But just understand that you have one life to live, so live it well. If you need someone to talk to please don't hesitate to email me. It would be more than an honor to know that you are happy and have tried to overcome your fears. Most of all, know that I truly wouldn't mind being your FRIEND. If you need someone to talk to, I'm the one. Take care of yourself and just remember to keep your head up high. George P.S. Hope you respond back.