HOLT, Mich. (WLNS) — April is Sexual Assault Consciousness Month, and to assist increase public consciousness, 6 Information sat down with two sisters who shared their expertise and journey to forgiveness.
Ceci Bordayo (left) and Priscilla Bordayo (proper)
Ceci Bordayo (left) and Priscilla Bordayo (proper)
Ceci Bordayo (proper) and Priscilla Bordayo (left)
“So, the journey started rough, messy, but I think through hard work, through mentorship, through counseling. I think all of us as siblings were able to take a very messy situation and turn into the message we have today, and that is healing is possible,” mentioned Ceci Bordayo.
Ceci and her twin sister, Priscilla Bordayo, say they have been each victims of sexual assault.
“During that time, it was just a difficult time when you’re trying to navigate just life in general,” mentioned Priscilla.
Priscilla says she was simply 12 years outdated when it occurred and that the abuse altered her life.
“Just being abused really changed my life in a negative way. I feel like I just had a lot of insecurities. Made a lot of bad choices out of a hurt place. I feel like I’ve come a long way from like being victimized to truly being like a victor and overcoming it,” mentioned Priscilla.
Priscilla now lives by a particular motto that helps her attain out to different assault victims, “I truly believe that hurt people hurt people, but healed people, heal people, and I’ve just been very dedicated, not only my own healing, but helping other victims who’ve been affected by sexual assault heal. So they, too themselves can also be victors.”
Ceci says her story began when she was round seven years outdated, and her manner of therapeutic was via songwriting.
“I’m a church kid. So, I just started writing music, and that was just kind of my escape, and express really the pain that I was holding onto,” mentioned Ceci.
Erin Roberts, Remedy Group Supervisor at Michigan State Univeristy, says to be careful for indicators that somebody might have skilled trauma.
“Somebody isolates a bit more, they become more quiet. There may be a lack of trust. They might change in how they’re operating. Maybe they’re skipping class. Maybe they’re missing work,” mentioned Roberts.
She says one of the best ways to help a sufferer is to easily consider them, “Most important in that moment that they are believed and making the space to listen. Don’t do as much talking. Listen and support.”
After a protracted journey of reconciliation and forgiveness, Priscilla desires to remind victims that they don’t seem to be alone.
“I really encourage victims to share with someone that they trust. Share their story and their voice is very powerful. You can actually turn your pain into purpose by sharing your story. The best gift you can give yourself is to heal and to forgive,” mentioned Priscilla.
