A Survivor's Story from Mayyim Hayyim

As we begin the second year of funding the Embracing Waters project, designed to support women who have been affected by domestic and/or relationship abuse, here is a story that Mayyim Hayyim director Aliza Kline recently shared with us.

"Hi Susan,

I wanted to share with you the story of a woman who immersed at Mayyim Hayyim one night this week:

"Marci" came here from out of town after having recently been sexually assaulted by someone who was a good friend of hers.  Her mother, not knowing anything about us, suggested that perhaps she might use the mikveh for healing.  She went online, came across our website, and scheduled a flight for her journey of 500 miles.

She also used the opportunity to reconnect with a friend of hers, a rabbi, whom she had not seen in years.

After sharing our ceremonies and resources, and placing her in the supportive care of one of our Mikveh Guides, she emerged from the water and said, "I didn't think it would happen, but it worked."

She then wrote the following in our guest book:

"Thank you for having a place like this - where safety and warmth radiate from the moment the door is opened, where compassion, patience, and understanding reign, where we may come to be made whole and know that our style and healing are respected.  Thank you also for the care that has been evident throughout, from first contact to the last bite of strawberry.  Leeann (her Mikveh Guide), Carrie, Anita - you are a blessing, and I hope the living waters will continue to strengthen you as you strengthen us."

Thank you for your partnership in welcoming and supporting women like Marci."

Clearly, the work that we do through the BJCWF has impact and meaning locally, nationally, and internationally.  Stories like this only serve to validate our mission and and to highlight the results of our ongoing group efforts.  Thank you each and every fund member for your contributions.