Video Series Urges Abuse Survivors to 'Step Out of the Shadows'

Few problems are as pervasive, yet shrouded in secrecy as domestic violence.

Shannon Deitz, founder of Hopeful Hearts ministry is inviting abuse survivors to step out of the shadows and bring their stories to light through a video series called "I Have a Voice."

In one of the first videos, Deitz retells the heartrending memories and feelings related to the abuse she endured by her own grandfather.

She said that it is important to talk about this issue, adding that she wanted to give other women the opportunity to speak up and see that they are not alone.  

"I realized that by not talking about what happened to me, it was affecting my life, affecting my responses, my reactions," Dietz explained.

Dietz believes in empowering those who have already survived the abuse.

"They're not just survivors, they can thrive in this world," she said.

This October is a time when awareness is being brought to the issue. Click play to hear Deitz explain how the Church can help to end domestic violence and abuse.