In 2016, Ashley found out that the prosecutors would not be pursuing the case against her rapist. 3 days later, she received an email from an organization that she loves & supports to join them at the NYC Triathlon. Being in desperate need of something to live for, she applied immediately. She showed up on race day overwhelmed & regretting her decision to sign-up. But, she used all the anger, confusion, embarrassment, shame, & frustration from her abuse to not only get through it but also finish 3rd in her AG & qualify for Nationals. Given the deep desperation, she felt otherwise, it was huge for her to be able to feel any strong positive emotion. She felt that she was getting better. In just her second year, she went onto complete Escape from Alcatraz, US Nationals, her first 70.3, & even her first full IM distance at Patagonman. She says that Triathlon didn't just save her, it ensured the bond that allowed her abuser to control her was broken once & for all. It's now been 2yrs since she found out her abuser would not be prosecuted, & she is alive, happy, thriving, & moving forward one step at a time. - Show Notes: https://www.humansoftriathlon.com/hotpodcast-ashley - H.o. T Podcast Survey - https://www.humansoftriathlon.com/podcastsurvey