But I DO take issue with a cause that can't be prevented getting more (or any) attention to a cause that with enough awareness can protect some human beings from an assault that will stay with them in some way shape or form for the rest of their lives. Parkinson's is a worthy cause and research is very important for those diagnosed to be able to manage the disease or even find a cure. The same is true for MS, cancer, arthritis and any other disease that is incurable but manageable.
Statistics on Parkinson's states that 1 in 272 people are diagnosed with the disease. They also estimate that the number is really 1 in 90 people suffer from the disease but not all are diagnosed. The symptoms and characteristics of this disease increase over time and, until there is a cure, remain with the those diagnosed until death.
Statistics on sexual assault say 1 out of 6 women are victims/survivors, and 1 out of 33 men are victims/survivors. By all accounts, these numbers are probably low because rape and other sexual assaults are not always reported. The effects of being a survivor of sexual assault include PTSD. PTSD's symptoms and characteristics also last a life time; although they are do not visually present as those of Parkinson's.
During this month I will post several other blogs about sexual assault and do my own part in raising awareness since the media seems to have forgotten.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, please call and talk to someone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or by logging on to the online hotline at http://www.rainn.org/.
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