Hurt and healing are deeply personal for every person. This is at once validating, because it reinforces the realness of each survivor’s individual experiences, but it can also feel isolating. It can be tempting to try to build yourself back up on your own, as a way of reclaiming choice and power that had been denied and taken from you, but be reminded that community – good community – is here to empower you.

Here are a few messages passers-through in the SACHA office want to remind other survivors:

“No shame, no blame (not of you) J”
“We are OK”
“You did not do anything wrong.”
“Your worth is not based on others’ opinions…”
“You are NOT alone”
“It’s amazing how many of us are on the same road”
“You can do anything. You just can’t do it alone.”
“Smile J”
“healing is possible”
“You are stronger than you believe”
“I AM J”
“This is a good place!”
“Keep moving forward”
“Ask for help if you need it.”
“It’s NOT your fault!”
“Believe”
“Never lose hope”
“It is possible”
“It’s okay to cry!!! Don’t hold it in.”
“Breath. J”
“Believe in healing.”
“Be kind to yourself.”
“Don’t quit!”
“Throw your mask away, you don’t need it”
“It’s not what you have – it’s who you are. Be yourself”

What is your message of support to survivors?