Katy’s Story

Who I Am & Where I’ve Been:

I am a 15-year-old girl who is still in high school. I first came to Thrive because my mother was a client. Never knowing that I would need their help too. Last year I was raped by my first boyfriend. At first, I did not even fully understand what had happened… Because I didn’t say no, I was made to believe that I wanted it or it was somehow my fault. But now I understand that I didn’t have a choice… my choice was taken from me the moment my boyfriend pulled a knife. I was so ashamed and afraid to tell anyone, including my mom!

How Thrive Has Helped:

It was Thrive that I went to and was the first person I told. They helped me understand the truth of what had happened and gave me the courage to not only tell my family, but also report it to the police. I still have to go to school every day with the perpetrator and it is affecting every moment of my life, but through Thrive, I have found the courage to stand up for myself, and I know that this was not my fault! They made me feel safe to talk about what had happened and did not judge me for the choices that I did make. And I know that I will overcome this too!