**SAFETY ALERT** If you are in danger, call or text 911.
Survivor Stories
Doug's Story
Doug had a typical childhood until his best friend’s father groomed him and then sexually assaulted him for four years during his adolescence. He thought he had dealt with the trauma, but the effects followed him for decades. More than 30 years after his abuse ended, Doug realized he needed more help and sought out group support from Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services division.
Note: This video contains details from the survivor's personal story that may be disturbing or triggering.
Ana's Story
Ana escaped a violent upbringing by quickly jumping into marriage. But her husband was also violent, so the cycle started again. To compound her trauma, Ana also was an immigrant, with her closest family still in another country and a non-existent support system. To escape her situation and determined not to have her daughter caught up in generations of abuse, Ana turned to Domestic and Sexual Violence Services for help.
Note: This video contains details from the survivor's personal story that may be disturbing or triggering.
Kader's Story
“Real love does not hurt.” That’s one of the most important takeaways domestic violence survivor Kader learned from her experience in an abusive marriage. Kader’s advocate from Domestic and Sexual Violence Services understood the complexities of her situation and helped her make it from victim of intimate partner abuse to survivor.
Note: This video contains details from the survivor's personal story that may be disturbing or triggering.
Valisha's Story
Everyone should live a life free of violence, especially children. That includes Valisha, who at a very young age witnessed the violence her father inflicted on her mother. Valisha's story has examples how the many ways domestic violence can manifest and how long-ago trauma can have an impact. Learn more about Valisha's story of survival.
Note: This video contains details from the survivor's personal story that may be disturbing or triggering.
Kari's Story
“To have someone understand what you’re going through is incredible,” says Kari about how Domestic and Sexual Violence Services helped her after she was held hostage and sexually assaulted. Learn more about Kari’s story of survival.
Note: This video contains details from the survivor's personal story that may be disturbing or triggering.
**SAFETY ALERT** If you are in danger, call or text 911.
