Category: Personal Stories

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  When Helping Hurts: Understanding Enabling vs Support

  Love Isn’t Always Support. There were many times in my life where I believed I was helping people, or that is what I told myself, at least. This is a subject I have struggled with for decades and I still have a hard time I believed loyalty meant staying. I believed love meant fixing. I…

  Written by

  Ashley A

  ·

  February 15, 2026

• Child Abuse: The Reality Behind the Numbers

  Content Warning This post discusses child abuse, including sexual abuse, exploitation, grooming, and long-term psychological impacts. Some content may be distressing or triggering for survivors. Reader discretion is advised, and please prioritize your well-being while reading. If this topic feels overwhelming, consider pausing, stepping away, or reaching out to someone you trust. 🤍 Why This…

  Written by

  Ashley A

  ·

  February 8, 2026

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  Dustin’s Justice – January’s Series Part 5/5: Following the Tragedy and onto Mourning & Action

  And a Call to Action for all KS representatives and law enforcement This Is Not Closure — This Is Commitment Content Warning: 🤍This post discusses death, addiction, trauma, and institutional failure. Please read in a space that feels safe for you. Before anything else, I need to be clear about something: This is not closure.…

  Written by

  Ashley A

  ·

  February 1, 2026

• Part 4 of 5 of Dustin’s Series: Dustin’s Tragedy

  When Systems Fail, Truth Matters Content Warning: 🤍This post discusses details of death, addiction, trauma, and institutional failure. Details are shared for truth and accountability — not for shock. This is the most detailed and personal story I will likely ever tell. Please read only when you’re in a good headspace and take care of…

  Written by

  Ashley A

  ·

  January 25, 2026

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  Part 3 of 5 of Dustin’s Series: Dustin’s Legacy – Who he Really Was

  Dustin Gene Gotham – Born January 17, 1990, Forever 32Always Loved; Never Forgotten Content Warning This post discusses addiction, anxiety, incarceration, and loss. While graphic details are not included, the content may still be emotionally difficult for some readers. Please take care while reading. Support resources are available on the Resources tab. 🤍 This post…

  Written by

  Ashley A

  ·

  January 18, 2026