Both sexual assault and child abuse are so devastating to most of us that we don't even want to think about them being present in our society,Deitz says. This makes it difficult for any victim of assault or abuse to feel comfortable enough to speak out, which is exactly what they need to be able to do. Be it a child, a teenager or an adult, anyone who has been abused needs to be able to speak about what has been done to them without question or judgment. With this in mind, Hopeful Hearts Ministry started the Have a Voice abuse awareness project where survivors share their personal stories of abuse (domestic, sexual, incest, rape, neglect, emotional and verbal) through intensely personal and honest YouTube videos. The videos show the power of giving a VOICE to survivors that was once kept hidden, and not only aides in their personal healing, but shows others they are not alone and there is reason for hope.
Deitz has the unfortunate firsthand experience of being a survivor of sexual abuse both as a child and as an adult. She encourages other survivors to speak up and speak out. The shame, despair and inability to cope with the painful events can lead to depression as well as dangerous behavior, as survivors tend to seek other ways to block out the memories and dull the pain." comments Deitz. "My main goal is to help others see their worth and become the best they can be." Through the power of her own testimony, she helps people see that they no longer have to live as a victim, but are worth so much more.
Deitz's willingness to share her story in her award-winning book, Exposed: Inexcusable Me, Irreplaceable Him, as well as listen to other survivor's stories through the Hopeful Hearts Ministry, has created hope and a safe place for abuse survivors of all ages and backgrounds.
Mary from Canada shares,"I am blessed and thankful for the support I received and continue to receive from Hopeful Hearts Ministry. It's a good feeling knowing that no matter how rough my road to healing may be, I always have genuine caring support."
The I Have a Voice videos are opening new doors for Hopeful Hearts Ministry outreach. After watching the video 'Child Sexual Abuse and Forgiveness', a gentleman personally contacted Deitz in appreciation. "Your sharing of your story, your truth, was very powerful. It really hit home and I was moved by your honesty, courage, and willingness to stand up for and speak out on behalf of the abused child. Your ministry is powerful, important, and needed."
Deitz continues reaching out to those who are struggling through her speaking engagements, blog, Just Show Up, and ministry website. She recently held a gala event honoring abuse survivors that raised $27,000 to aide in these efforts which funded the opening of the Hopeful Hearts Ministry headquarters in the greater Houston, TX area.
www.HopefulHeartsMinistry.com
