When Carolina walked into her first Personal Empowerment Program (PEP) class, she sat alone, her face emotionless, her guard up. It was PEP 4: The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children. As the class discussed how childhood trauma shapes adult relationships, she remained quiet—until the video on brain development played. Something inside her cracked. Tears streamed down her face.

For the first time, she saw the connection between her past and the abusive relationship she was trapped in.

A Childhood Stolen

At just eight years old, Carolina was abused by a family member. Terrified and confused, she did what every child is told to do—she told her mother. But instead of love and protection, she was met with blame and shame. The betrayal was worse than the abuse itself, she later said. Embarrassed and devastated, she blocked the memory, convincing herself it had never happened. But as she entered adulthood, Carolina found herself in two abusive relationships, each filled with control and fear. Physical touch triggered terrifying out-of-body experiences, a reaction she couldn’t understand until that PEP class. It was then that she realized her repressed childhood trauma was affecting her adult relationships.

In the most recent incident of abuse, the situation escalated when the harm was directed at Carolina’s oldest son. Desperate to protect her child, she fought back. That was when social services intervened, removing the person responsible from the home. Through a family resource center, Carolina discovered Radiant Futures and decided to join PEP to break free from the cycle.

PEP wasn’t easy. On her first day, Carolina had to face the painful truth: her family’s betrayal had normalized abuse in her life for years. But as the sessions progressed, she began to share more, leaving behind her guarded demeanor. She saw that she wasn’t alone, others shared similar stories, and that validation became the key to her healing.

By the time she completed the PEP program, Carolina walked away with newfound strength, honoring the inner child who had been hurt and needed healing. She now understands she wasn’t at fault for her abuse—and she’s determined to break the cycle for her children. Carolina was connected to clinical services in her area, with continued support from Radiant Futures to ensure her healing journey continues.

At Radiant Futures, we begin by truly believing in survivors’ stories, helping them understand that they are not at fault for the abuse they’ve endured. We empower them by showing that healing is possible and that the strength to recover has always been within them. Our role is to provide the tools to help them begin their journey to healing.

If you or someone you know needs support, call our 24/7 Helpline at 877-531-5522.