Survivor portraits experience

What have been your greatest challenges in life?I struggle with anxiety and depression making it very hard to go through daily tasks. My greatest challenges in life so far have been getting through the day and facing certain situations.

Describe your situation.

At the age of 13 I went through a very traumatic experience. I was young and I wasn’t quite sure how to handle the situation, and I didn’t know who to go to, or how to get help. I turned into a very angry, upset person and I would sometimes act out in ways that didn’t benefit me. I got suspended from school, and even would skip days of school. Going through the system at school and the law was exhausting. All of this stress, anxiety, and sadness turned out to be too much and I unenrolled from that school and transferred to a different school to start my long journey of healing.

Did you ever feel alone in your journey?Yes. Even though I had support I still felt alone at times. No one fully understood the situation but me.

What helped you most? My sister Ann, and my best friend Olivia.

What are your most proud of?I’m most proud of how far I’ve gotten and how much I have healed. When everything had occurred it felt like the earth came crashing down and it would never stop crashing.

What brings you joy?Being around people I love, reading, and sunny days.

A word from Kat’s mom Liz

This experience was amazing for Kat. I think this is a step in the healing process for her.

I got to see her smiling, laughing and enjoying herself. I saw confidence in her again. Thank you!