A MESSAGE FROM Christina Runs the NYC Marathon for Crime Victims Treatment Center (CVTC)
On November 7th, I am running the New York City Marathon to raise money for Crime Victims Treatment Center (CVTC). The reason why is personal, and I know will come as a tough surprise to a lot of people.
I am running because some time ago, I was a victim who walked into the emergency room, asking for a date rape drug test. I had been sexually assaulted and, I knew in my heart, drugged. But, I needed help to prove it. In a panic, I went to two ERs, two urgent cares, two pharmacies, dealt with two groups of police officers, attorneys and Special Victims Unit and NOBODY helped me in time. The clock ran out and I never got the drug test. I needed help and the system failed me.
I felt like I was stuck in one of those nightmares where you scream for help but no sound comes out. I was victimized twice when what I needed was an advocate. Had I had one in that moment, this bit of my story may have had a different ending.
Crime Victims Treatment Center (CVTC), provides volunteer advocates in New York City ERs to provide emotional support and clarity of medical and legal options for victims. They provide free legal services, including issuing a restraining order, and offer counseling to victims no matter how long it is after the fact. They uplift, care for and walk with women like me.
So I’m running for them. I’m running, not out of shame or fear or away from anything. I’m running out of sheer will and joy towards the restoration and fullness of life God has in store for me and for all of us who have ever felt broken.
I’m running to continue my own journey of healing. And, I’m running out of the galvanizing fire this has lit under my life so that other victims know where to turn and where to find the courage, resources and restoration to run with perseverance the race set before them, too.
My whole heart and soul will be in this run. I’d love for you to be with me. Please run with me by donating.
