19 thoughts on “I’m a survivor”

  1. I’m sorry you were abused. I believe you.
    Good on you for speaking out. I can’t begin to imagine how you must feel.
    I guess l they are survivors because they didn’t let their abusers control them, they didn’t keep quiet, they didn’t take their own lives because of what happened even though it will torment them forever
    I’m am proud of you Chantelle xx

  2. Brokenness is absolutely the right word Chantelle. Our brokenness often shows, even when we try to hide it.
    And you’re right, abuse is a bitch.
    I fear that not much will come of the royal commission – it is so disheartening. But, perhaps as you’ve stated, the most important thing is happening for victims/survivors – they are being seen and believed. At long last for some, sadly too late for others.
    Ultimately the lesson for us is to foster and keep open channels of communication with the children in our circles, be trustworthy in their eyes, believe our intuition and most of all, we must never, ever sweep anything so horrifying under the carpet again.

    ❤️❤️

  3. I think you’re amazing Chantelle! You’re more than a survivor! You’re so many things and that is something to be proud of. I had a friend at Uni who was the victim of abuse and she tried so hard for so long but she couldn’t go on. I, myself, felt guilty for so long because I thought I should have done more to help her but I came to realise she did what was best for her and I was proud of her for trying to survive for so long when I can’t even begin to imagine what she went through. So big ❤️ to you x

  4. There are victims, there are survivors and there are thrivers. You, my friend, are in the last category. It’s not just that you’ve been knocked to the floor and then managed to stand up and face the world again, you face the world front on with a determined tilt to your chin and the message that those who were abused can overcome this and work towards a positive.

    You share your message bravely and wholeheartedly (because you wouldn’t know how to do anything less), you are open to people contacting you looking for a guide to the way forward and not only do you share your story but you share the stories of the Rafiki Mwema girls. You expose those of us who are innocent to the knowledge that this happens and it happens at a young age, you encourage us to help and sponsor those lovely girls and you stand as an example for the girls as a person who has learned to live a good life despite the abuse you went through.

    Live hard and strong, love a lot and know you’re worth the best from others. xx

  5. Chantelle, you’re one of the strongest people I know (or don’t know, I should say)- and you’ve fought through this like a battle that ended one day but still continues in the deep dark corners of your heart. You aren’t just a survivor, to be honest, you are someone who has thrived in the heat of surviving.

    Keep on living strong.

  6. Chantelle, it is a terrible thing that happened to you. I believe you and I’m so sorry.

    My mother wasn’t believed by her own parents. I don’t know how one survives that.

    Keep on thriving and loving and living and giving. You’re a shiny shiny soul, lovely lady. X

  7. Darling Chantelle, you inspire me every day, sometimes in small ways, sometimes (like today) in a huge way. Abuse – there are no words to really describe it, as everyone’s experience of it is different. I was a victim of verbal and physical abuse, different, but no less challenging in its own way. We (and all the other courageous people sharing their stories) are now paving the way for others to speak more openly and for them to be believed. You have not let these vile acts ruin you, instead you have used it as a platform for good and that is one of the most courageous things anyone could ever do.

    You are a light in a sky of darkness.
    Much love
    Sharon xx

  8. You are a survivor and an amazing person, Chantelle. What Bob stole from you is indefensible, and utterly despicable. But he did not steal your spirit, courage and your strength. And you are doing incredible things with your voice. I am appalled by all acts of abuse – from strangers, and from those who are closest to us. Good on you for speaking up and giving a voice to those who need you to speak on their behalf. And I agree with your last statement: “those who abuse , they’re the absolute scum of the earth.” hugs to you xx

  9. I am so very sorry for what you have had to endure Chantelle, no one should ever have to go through that. You’re exactly right, abusers are the scum of the earth. Thankyou for having the courage to speak out, it will inspire others to do that same x

  10. I’m so very sorry for what you’ve had to endure Chantalle, no one should ever have to go through that. You’re absolutely right, abusers are the scum of the earth. Thankyou for having the courage to speak out, it will inspire others to do the same.

  11. I’m also a survivor, I choose that word because that’s what we did! We survived the horribleness of sexual abuse and thru it became stronger and confident women who know that we can conquer anything. Yes, I may have a flash back or two but when that happens I look around me and see what I have accomplished and know I WON! You did too! I’ve only been a part of this community for about a year now, but what I have learned about you Chantelle is you are strong, confident and you may have a bad day occasionally, but girl, you conquered that abuser long ago! ?

  12. I’m a thriver! My abuser died 18 months ago and it allowed me start living. Fear is consuming, shame is paralyzingly, and when people you trust (like family) choose not to believe because it makes life easier for them…well that is like a someone twisted my heart and my guts and then kicked me in the head. But, these days I’m a thriver xx

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