I’m a Puerto Rican girl from the South Bronx who survived a violent childhood that included rape, child abuse, severe family dysfunction and painful assimilation; surviving and thriving to become an award-winning journalist, author and trained Hispanic advocate.
I now speak openly about my PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) diagnosis as a way to eradicate the negative stigma associated with mental health issues. As a victim of childhood rape, I remain dedicated to helping survivors in any way I can.
As a graduate of four leadership programs, I’m determined to change the negative stereotype of who we are as Puerto Ricans, specifically in the social media public square and within the halls of Congress.
I’ve been appointed by Governors and befriended by politicos – all well aware of my advocacy for Puerto Rico and my people.
As Puerto Rico now struggles to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Maria, I’m focused on the issue of mental health services for it’s victims and especially for our children in crisis.