Warning: this episode contains discussion surrounding sexual assault and does go into some detail on the specific acts. Also, adult language and humor warning.

Although sexual assault is starting to become a topic that can be discussed, some survivors are still terrified to tell their stories. Meet Athena Ives; she is a Combat Marine Veteran, author, speaker, doctoral candidate, and a survivor. After being sexually abused as a child by a family member, Athena was also sexually assaulted - twice - while in the military.

While her story may be difficult to hear, it also needs to be heard. And she tells it so beautifully, coming from a place of strength and trying to help others in the process. With her story, she talks about how others can help survivors and how we need to build a culture of listening without judgement.

Athena Ives:

Book - Thank you for Raping Me: A Marine's story of Resilience and Hope: https://www.amazon.com/Thank-you-Raping-Me-Resilience-ebook/dp/B07KDXZ11T/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=athena+ives&qid=1562354494&s=gateway&sr=8-1
Website: https://athenaives.com/

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) - Vet Together:

Website: https://iava.org/vettogether/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vetogether76/

Greater Veterans Spokane Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreaterVeterans/

The Saluting Marine Website: https://thesalutingmarine.com/

Veterans for Natural Rights Website: https://veteransfornaturalrights.org/

The Barracks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okbarracks/

Leave No Paws Behind USA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leavenopawsbehindusa/

The Kirstie Ennis Foundation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekirstieennisfoundation/

YOMF014: Ryan Dedmon - Be Like a Redwood Tree