Recently, I heard the news that musician R. Kelly was sentenced to 20 years in prison for child pornography and enticement of minors for sex. That same day, film producer Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 16 years for rape and sexual assault. As I read the reports, anxiety bubbled up, taking me back to memories of the blind adoration I had for those famous men that led to being victimized. I hurt for these women preyed upon by men who abused their power and privilege, forever altering their lives. I knew too well the long-lasting effects. And I know there are too many other women who have been traumatized in the same way.

But there was something more — a feeling of kinship with fellow survivors, empowered by their strength in standing up to perpetrators, and knowing the monumental act of courage it takes to do so. Healing ― and sometimes even justice ― can come from telling our stories.

Though I have previously written about another sexual assault I experienced later in my life, I have never publicly spoken about what happened to me with the men I idolized all those years ago ― until now. It took me years to get over what happened, to stop blaming myself and to heal.

Yahoo I Was 15 When I Started Partying With Rock Stars. I Told No One What They Did To Me — Until Now.