Hey, Everyone! In Michigan, it feels like summer finally!  The sun and hot weather is welcomed here. April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Nearly half a million people every year are victims of sexual assault or rape in the United States. These same people are at higher risk of becoming addicted to substances and struggle with post traumatic stress disorder. Laura comes on the podcast to discuss her experience with these confusing and sad statistics/issues that have directly impacted her life. Please be aware that this episode may be triggering for some listeners as we hear graphic depictions of abuse. No kids allowed. Laura is such a wise and resilient woman who has grown so much from her greatest hurts and shame. Laura shares what it was like growing up in a Hispanic Catholic family, and how she has learned to cope through music. It is a great conversation filled with hope, inspiration, and overcoming. I am so grateful to her for coming on the podcast!  Check out her Instagram pages for updates, music, and her book release @lauramarieinwords @lauramariemusic or on Twitter. Thank you so very much for your bravery, Laura!

I want to hear YOUR story. Please consider contacting me and sharing your story of resilience. We have a big following---you never know who you could inspire during their darkest days. You are never alone. Come along with us and then check back soon for more content. Please review Push Diaries Podcast on iTunes so more people can find it. Visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com/laura to learn more about this episode and see resources that go along with the topics discussed. Checkout www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to become a sustaining member of the show. Every penny is GREATLY appreciated. Thank you so much! I hope you have been enjoying these conversations. Many thanks for sharing my show with a friend! Peace until next time!  -- Host Tess

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