Life Update – November 2021

Fear. Vulnerability. Frustration. For the past 21 months, I have been a victim of stalking. This week in court, that changed. 1.4 million people are stalked every year in the United States, one in 12 women in their lifetimes. Stalking is a series of actions that make you feel afraid or in danger. Stalking is serious, often violent, and can escalate over time. A stalker can be someone you know well or not at all. I never even had a conversation with my stalker.

I consider myself a brave, empowered woman. I’ve taken self defense classes and am keenly aware of safety. But I wasn’t safe. I now see that sharing my story to help others takes a new kind of courage. Our wounds are our sources of growth. I want victims to know—you have rights…something I didn’t know for a long time. I was told he had to do something “illegal,” like harm me, before anything could be done…and I lived with this fear shadowing me for over a year…but that is not the case. I now have a 10-year order of protection. I want to use my experience and my voice to empower other women. Stalking is unpredictable, dangerous, and unacceptable. I’m an overcomer, and although this experience has been difficult, I know I am stronger for it and want to encourage others to be empowered, informed, and safe. You have rights—and everyone should be able to feel safe.

For resources, see:

www.MySelfDefenseTraining.com

https://emilytaylorcenter.ku.edu/protect-yourself-stalking

In the Kansas City metropolitan area, MOCSA KC is an incredible resource. I cannot thank them enough for walking with me through this. I also had an amazing female lawyer and a brilliant female judge presiding. I’m so grateful.

xo,

Gracie

Hi! I'm Gracie.

I’m the former Miss Kansas USA 2021! I’m an avid sports fan, fitness enthusiast, and currently pursuing my Master’s in Sport Management at the University of Kansas. I hope this blog inspires your everyday and encourages you to go Live Gracefully!

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