(Photo credit to Writer93)

Dear Dr. Blasey,

I am so sorry you suffered through the indignity of having an intentional sexually assault when you were only fourteen years old. A child. No woman—though too many have—should ever have to go through what you did. Only monsters do such things.

I know that you suffered from this attack, even though your abuser was “stumbling drunk” and couldn’t perform the act.

Attempted rape is as terrifying as rape for most women. We all have to live with the memory of that horrible assault, where we felt terrified, alone, uncertain about whether this drunken person actually kill you.

I know that you are in a tough position. I understand what choices you need to make for you. I don’t know you but I know you’re story as it is one that I have lived, if you ‘about me’ in my blog.

I am a survivor of childhood sexual assault, which led to my working in the sex industry. I became a heroin addict because I couldn’t handle the fear, terror, and shame that I went through. It took me thirty years to confront my abuser but it was the best thing I ever did.

I am asking you to tell your story. Not just to prevent Judge Kavanaugh’s confirmation but do it for yourself, first. Confronting my father was the most freeing thing I have ever done and it empowered me in ways I never thought were possible.

I have a successful conclusion. I turned my life around, freed myself from heroin, and became a psychologist like you, perhaps so I could make some sense of the terrible violence to which my abuser subjected me. After years of therapy, I met and married the love of my life.

I’m asking you to consider all the women who have gone through what you have. Those women have never had a chance to be heard. You are their chance to be heard.

This is your chance.

Be heard.

For all women.

Sometimes a cause is bigger than our emotions or our personal life. You can help free many other women by speaking out; however, you have my greatest respect regardless.

Peace,

Melinda El-Negoumy Roberts Tyler