My name is Petra and I am on a mission to help others by sharing my story. I will not hide in shame. I am tearing off the band-aid and unlocking the pain that’s deep down inside. My childhood years were full of abuse; mental, emotional, verbal, physical, and sexual. I have very rarely spoken in depth about this part of my life. It was NOT my fault and I am NOT ashamed anymore!

Today, I free myself of all the pain I kept locked inside. This pain changed my personality for 36 years. I was angry, took everything personally, and I didn’t know how to joke around. Smiling or laughing felt “awkward” to me. What makes me smile today? My two boys, my fiance, my friends, my family, and YOU! Yes, you reading this right now. I smile because you’re here, you’re strong and you’re amazing.