In 2013 I was diagnosed with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Experiences that I had never disclosed and had mentally blocked out suddenly hit me and I began to have frequent intense flashbacks, panic attacks and nightmares, and suffered severely from hypervigilance, a state of constant heightened awareness. I was unable to function in my daily life and had to take a leave of absence from my university course. During the last 2 years I have made considerable progress in accepting, understanding, and learning to manage my PTSD. I now have a successful career as a nurse and live an independent and fulfilling life. This has been possible largely thanks to counselling that I have received from a local charity, the Rape and Sexual Violence Project (RSVP). This dedicated organisation helps victims of sexual abuse to become survivors and rebuild their lives after rape or sexual violence. RSVP is dependent upon donations, and after all that they have done for me I feel that it is time to give something back, so that they can continue to be there for others like me for years to come.
On 2nd July 2016 I will take part in the Birmingham Black Country Half Marathon in an attempt to raise awareness of PTSD and raise money for RSVP. Any donation that you can spare would be greatly appreciated by both myself and RSVP, and will mean that more people can benefit from the fantastic support offered by this little charity.
Too many people have their lives devastated by sexual abuse. Please help RSVP to help them by supporting me in my fundraising today.
Thank you,
Hannah Guest
