Welcome to Surviving the Memories. This is a website I decided to create to show how much of a Survivor from rape I have become and to attempt to help others with the simple validation that they are not alone. One can choose to let  the memories rule their lives while others can take those memories and find strength within them.
 
I have chosen to be strong.
 
My name is Donna, I am 30 years old and from New York. I was raped on December 9th 1998.
 
Within this site I will tell you about my story,  I will show you many poems I have written. Some of these poems may be beyond sad but I feel by venting out one's feelings on paper makes it so much easier to cope than with it all fluttering around in your head. I will introduce you to many favorite songs of mine; on most pages you'll see a survivor-related song you can listen to as you read. Then...drum-roll...if you want more survivor music to listen to, you will find more than 300 songs and pieces of classical music in the Survivor Jukebox I've compiled. There's a page for song lyrics  as well as lists of favourite healing songs submitted by other survivors. I am a total music buff so please brace yourself. *smiles*

What's also new is my Survivor Arcade, where you can go and play some diverting games. Have fun. I also have a memorial page, which is a comfort to me, and if you've lost somebody I hope it will be to you as well.
 
You will also see a page of many links, some are Personal Survivor Links, there are sites for Sexual Abuse Prevention, while others are many degrees of information throughout my entire site that may help you in your journey of healing.
 
Remember this, the night or day that you were raped, abused, traumatized anything still makes you a survivor. No matter how much of a victim and "statistic" you may feel like you are, it doesn't matter cause in all actuality you are a true and true survivor. Know that you are not alone, every single feeling that you have has been felt by many before while many others are still going through them.
 
Keep in mind that no matter what you are a unique and cherished human being, you were born for a reason, even if that reason doesn't show itself right this moment in time there is a reason why you are on this earth. There is also a reason why you are in my website, take care of yourself as you stroll around. (((hugs)))
 
You are your own best friend, you were with you as you came into this world as you will be when you leave this world. We all face trauma one way or another, but please keep your head up. It does get better.
 
Thankyou for coming into my site and I hope you enjoy your time in here. If you have a questions, comments, or anything to add feel free to email me at Donna@survivingthememories.org
 
Everyone please keep safe,