Betsy

Betsy was a victim of a serial rapist who was responsible for more than 30 known assaults. While waiting to be seen in the ER, a victim advocate from The Women’s Center showed up to provide support and resources. “She was very calming during my exam and police questioning. She reassured me that it wasn’t my fault.”

Betsy returned to The Center for individual counseling, group therapy, and courtroom preparation and accompaniment. “The trial was a grueling, terrifying process, but having The Center’s staff and other victims there gave me strength,” said Betsy.

“I remember asking, ‘God, why is this happening to me?’ My answer was, yes, what I went through was horrible, but how can it help someone else? I couldn’t change what happened, but I could help change one life, make an impact on one person.” Betsy’s testimony, the subsequent conviction and the continued incarceration of her perpetrator prevented further attacks on many other women.

“The Women’s Center gave me my life back, helped me feel I had control again, helped me feel secure and beautiful and that I matter—because that is what was taken from me. The Center helped me realize I could be a beautiful human being again.”