From Violent Crime Victim to Thriver: Patricia Wenskunas on Taking Her Power Back and Advocating for Survivors

Join your host, Brooke, on Transforming and Thriving for an incredibly powerful and inspiring conversation with Patricia Wenskunas, the founder and CEO of Crime Survivors, Inc.

Patricia's mission was born from her own survival of a violent attack in 2002 by her personal trainer, who threatened to kill her and her 12-year-old son. This horrific experience was the ultimate "before and after" moment that changed her life's trajectory. She bravely discusses confronting the survivor's guilt and realizing she was "so much more than what happened to me."

In this moving episode, Patricia shares:

• How the fierce commitment to caring for her son and helping others fueled her to move from victimhood, take her power back, and survive.
• The ongoing process of transforming and thriving, which is driven by her desire that no one feel alone and the need to provide resources for victims and their family members.
• Her commitment to bringing awareness, prevention, advocacy, and healing to others.
• Her early and relentless advocacy for Marsy’s Law, fighting to ensure victims' rights are prioritized in the justice system.
• How facing triggers with support is essential to taking your power back, and her guiding belief that “With Faith, there is Hope.”

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced trauma or abuse, is supporting a loved one through a difficult transition, or is searching for the strength to transform their own "mess into motivational fuel." Patricia Wenskunas is a living testament to the fact that healing is possible.

Connect with Patricia Wenskunas and Crime Survivors, Inc.

"You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated"—Maya Angelou

Website: www.crimesurvivors.org

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Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.