A Lifetime of Healing

Trauma from sexual abuse and assault gets stored in the body, manifesting as physical, mental, and emotional stress over a lifetime. Many survivors do not realize they are a survivor until they leave for college, birth a baby, or the house is finally quiet after teenagers leave for college. They may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, recurring gynecological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and sexual health problems for decades after the traumatic event occurred - not forgetting the financial recurring challenges due to the cost of healthcare.

Recovery is the process of releasing this trauma. In recovery, a survivor re-learns to feel at home in her body, reconnect with her emotions and reclaim calm. Working with professionals and peers allows a survivor to address her experience of the world and plan for the long-term. Nature gives space to process trauma. Through physical activity outdoors, she can focus on her body and work with the impacts of trauma. The challenge of mountain biking, along with community support, empowers a survivor on the path to healing.