Catriona talks to fellow survivor Winnie M Li about what happened when she was raped by a stranger while on a hike in Northern Ireland, and then seeing her rapist convicted.
As always, this first part contains details many listeners may find distressing, including the police investigation after she was attacked. If you feel like leaving this part for another time, then head back to the feed to listen to part 2, where we hear how Winnie’s doing now.
You can also read more about Winnie’s experience and the aftermath in her novel Dark Chapter and at www.winniemli.com
Winnie M Li tells Catriona about how writing a novel helped her cope with her trauma.
Called Dark Chapter, Winnie’s novel retells what happened when she was raped in 2008. It also takes the unique perspective of both the survivor and the perpetrator and explores how the assault affects the lives of both.
Winnie talks about how she struggled to reclaim the things she loves doing, like travelling and hiking. But she found that playing the piano helped her when she was at her lowest.
She has since founded the organisation Clear Lines, which uses the arts as a discussion to address sexual assault and consent. Find out more at www.clearlines.org.uk and www.winniemli.com
If you've been affected by sexual abuse or violence, you can find details of organisations in the UK who offer help and support at bbc.co.uk/actionline.