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Stop Sextortion for Caregivers

Stop Sextortion for Caregivers

by Crystal Emerick | Dec 3, 2020 | Changemaker, Loved Ones, Parents & Caregivers

Stop Sextortion for Caregivers “Your children are safer because of your support and guidance...

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Voices of Change From the outside, @darlenelekows Voices of Change

From the outside, @darlenelekowski’s childhood looked picture-perfect - close-knit family, a safe neighborhood, full calendars and big dreams.

But behind that image was a secret no child should ever have to carry.

Beginning at the age of seven, Darlene endured sexual abuse by her two oldest brothers and years of silence enforced by fear and threats. Today, she is breaking that silence, on her own terms, by bravely sharing her story in a forthcoming memoir releasing April 2026.

By choosing to speak, Darlene is reclaiming her voice and creating space for others to feel seen, believed and less alone. Her courage challenges the myths of what abuse “looks like” and reminds us that recovery and truth-telling are powerful forces for change.

This is bravery.
This is truth.
This is a Voice of Change.

Learn more about Darlene and her upcoming memoir: https://darlene-lekowski.com/book/ where you can also sign up for book updates.
Sometimes courage looks like… a goldendoodle sip Sometimes courage looks like… a goldendoodle sipping tea. ☕🐾

We’re so grateful to our community partner, @jeansapothecare and @overcashtherapy for creating the sweetest little way to support survivors.

Introducing the Dog + Tea Time “Ry Dog” Vinyl Sticker — inspired by Ryleigh the Therapy Dog and beautifully illustrated by Brooke Ballentine. Picture this: a cozy goldendoodle, purple mug with daisies in paw, fully embodying calm and comfort.

And here’s the best part 💙
$1 from every $4 sticker sold is donated to Brave Step.

It may seem small — but small, steady acts of care are how community support grows. Every sticker helps fuel survivor education, support programs and awareness efforts like Color It Blue.

Recovery spaces are built in big moments … and in soft ones, too.

If you love dogs, tea or simply supporting a cause that centers dignity and empowerment, this one’s for you. Link to purchase is in bio.

Thank you to Jean’s Apothecare for turning creativity into compassion.

#EverydayCourage #ColorItBlue #CommunityPartner #SupportSurvivors
Words matter. Courage grows when our responses are Words matter. Courage grows when our responses are gentle, curious and supportive.

#Wordsmatter #respondwithkindness #everydaycourage
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Brave Step is grateful for your interest in supporting this work and welcome gifts of any size. A dollar goes a long way in strengthening men and women impacted by sexual violence.

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At Brave Step, we work to build a strong, supportive community by helping adults impacted by sexual violence claim the life they deserve; fostering brave public conversations about sexual violence; and cultivating a community of courageous changemakers to take action and help prevent future sexual violence.

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