Danielle’s faith in Christ plays a big role in who she is. It is that relationship that has helped her overcome many unprecedented challenges including rape, domestic violence, depression, attempted suicide, and escaping with her life on multiple occasions. She is never shy to give thanks for every good thing God has given her.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.” – James 1:17
Because of her past, Danielle has the unique ability to identify and relate with those currently in situations she has overcome. She has spoken as a guest speaker at churches and as a motivational speaker for women’s conferences. Danielle works as an intern and volunteer in her spare time to help women and children of domestic violence and rape receive legal protection and ensure safety from their attackers.
“No one goes into life thinking they will be suicidal, raped, abused, or have someone try to kill them. I certainly didn’t. I actually thought the opposite,” Danielle muses. “In fact I thought that would never be me… and yet it was.” The truth is there is no stereotype for those who struggle with these issues. Danielle uses the message of love and hope in her writing and music. “I know what my life’s purpose is,” She says, “It’s to show God’s love. If I can help one person it’s all worth it.”
Danielle’s previous obstacles have helped shape who she is. After fleeing a dangerous marriage, she sought to use her outlook on women’s rights in a new way: she chose to study for her Master’s in International Law and International Relations with an emphasis on Human Rights, specifically that of women. Addressing the issue of abusive relationships, suicide, depression, and rape within the faith community is not always met with open arms but Danielle understands that in order for there to be a change these topics must be discussed and people should be educated.
“If I had known the warning signs of abuse, of a potential rapist, if I had been educated about depression and suicide I think my life would have been drastically different.” But Danielle also knows that while God never wished her harm, he uses all things for the good of those who love him (Romans 2:8). God is the giver of life, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” It is that life Danielle desires to share. In addition to experiencing deliverance from impossible circumstances, she has also witnessed God’s miraculous healing in her body from an arduous back injury, occipital neuralgia, and knee injuries.
Danielle welcomes any opportunity to share a message of love and hope with faith and non-faith communities. If you would like to have her as a guest speaker, please contact her on the contact page. If you are currently facing suicide, depression, abuse, or have been raped, please seek immediate help. There is hope for you. Life does not end with the trial you are facing. Visit Danielle’s list of causes for more information.