This is PART 3 of a four-part series; an interview of Ellie Freeman. Ellie is one of the 4 people who participated on a panel several years ago at Hamilton University, to tell a multi-disciplinary audience about their rape stories. After the panel discussion, the four panelists approached me about the presentation I had done that morning, and stressed how important it was that I start a podcast to get the word out of what it means to be trauma-informed; both from the victim/survivor side, and the law enforcement side. I am forever grateful to Mac McDonald, Jennifer Jones, Ellie Freeman, and Samantha McCoy. Ellie's story is told in a quietly powerful way. Ellie is brave enough to talk about how the horrendous act of rape is exacerbated in the instance of someone having sexual contact with another person, when that situation is facilitated by drugging the victim. The rape brings on profound feelings of guilt and self-blame…such is the case with Ellie. The level of pain is impossible to explain. Freezing is a common reaction when this level of pain is experienced. But Ellie pushed on when most wouldn't. She found that telling others about her experience was therapeutic. She found that helping others with their pain, is what helps her deal with her own. Ellie's is a story of perseverance and healing; of growing through the pain and thriving. Ellie is an amazing example of being a survivor. It is an honor to have her as a guest on this podcast, and it is an honor to call her a friend. Take this episode to heart, and really pay attention to the level of sincerity and honest empathy that Ellie experiences both with herself, and with other survivors. Then share this episode with all your friends, loved-ones, colleagues, and even acquaintances; because we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault. Let's all do our part to help bring justice to victims and survivors. And remember to Start by Believing. evawi.org Please subscribe to this podcast and rate each episode you listen to. Growing the audience of this podcast is key to helping bring justice to victims and survivors. Thank you for listening. markel-consulting.com