My story isn’t unique. I wish it was but the truth of the matter is everyone, whether they know it or not, knows someone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, assault, rape and/or domestic violence. Some of my experiences? My stepfather began sexually abusing me when I was 6 years old; by the age of 15 I would be sexually assaulted by a local grocer, and after a routine checkup sexually assaulted by my family doctor - a man who had been my doctor for 8 years; an abusive and jealous boyfriend raped me at the age of 18; and, at the age of 45 I entered a relationship with a man who not only physically abused and threatened me, but also emotionally, financially and verbally abused me.
At the age of 49 all of these experiences that I tried to push aside and move on from caught up to me and I had a nervous breakdown. For three months I put my life on hold and sought treatment at an outpatient program.
I didn't want to.
I was ashamed.
I felt completely broken.
I wanted to die.
I was so accustomed to believing I was worthless that the idea I could heal seemed impossible.
What I didn't know was not only would that program provide me with the skills required to create a life I love, I would discover my greatest superpower. A superpower EVERYONE possesses but will not use.
WILLINGNESS
WILLINGNESS to seek help
WILLINGNESS to go EVERY SINGLE DAY
WILLINGNESS to DO THE WORK
WILLINGNESS to let go of my core belief that I was worthless
WILLINGNESS to believe I could create a life I love
WILLINGNESS to try, fail, get up, try again and ENJOY every part of the journey to become the woman I once believed I could never be.
WILLINGNESS to live in the discomfort of fear, doubt, financial insecurity and face it instead of run from it.
WILLINGNESS to bet on me
I started by writing my book, Press Pause which was met with beautiful accolades by readers. I became an Impact and Keynote Speaker, accepting invites from colleges, non-profits and going back to the facility that believed in me to put a face on Sexual and Domestic Violence. I launched my podcast "Unsilenced Unafraid Unstoppable", creating a safe and open space for anyone to come and have a conversation abou their life's lessons and blessings. I work with survivors of abuse to enable them to become surTHRIVERS.
I have slowly built and created a life I love, and share the truth in the hopes that I can assist others who live in the dark corners of hopelessness.
I started tapping into my willingness in 2020 in an enchanting setting to share my story and book.
Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc. (B.A.C.A.) exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. We exist as a body of Bikers to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live.
Providing education, intervention and support to families and individuals dealing with domestic violence, sexual abuse and missing loved ones.
The Middlesex County Center for Empowerment (The Center) is the state designated sexual violence program for Middlesex County.
The New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential access to domestic violence information and services, including crisis intervention, referral, and advocacy.
A grassroots organization supporting survivors and advocates.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization.
The VictimConnect Resource Centeris a referral helpline where crime victims can learn about their rights and options confidentially and compassionately
Copyright © 2023 Maureen Spataro - All Rights Reserved.