In this transformative episode of Unspoken: Conversations with Candace, survivor, advocate, and devoted mother Christina Trinidad courageously shares her journey through years of abuse, trauma, and silence—and how she reclaimed her voice to help others heal.
With raw honesty, Christina recounts her early experiences of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, the pivotal moment she and her brother disclosed the truth, and the life-changing impact of her father’s arrest and conviction. Today, Christina channels her pain into purpose, serving with Believe Survivors, Inc. and NAMI Racine County to create safe spaces for others on their healing journeys.
Christina opens up about:
- Growing up in an abusive household marked by fear, violence, and survival.
- How her brother became both her protector and her “sibling soulmate.”
- The years of grooming and betrayal by her father.
- The courage it took to finally disclose her abuse to her grandmother.
- The arrest, trial, and 18-year prison sentence that followed.
- The role of therapy, survivor communities, and faith in her healing.
- Why forgiveness became a turning point in her journey.
- How she is now using her voice to support and empower other survivors.
This episode is a brave and emotional reminder that no matter how dark your past, there is light, healing, and hope on the other side of trauma. Christina’s story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of breaking the silence.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Christina
04:15 – Christina’s Early Childhood & Family Life
12:20 – Escalation of Abuse & Coping with Fear
22:35 – School as a “Safe Haven” & Finding Small Escapes
34:10 – Grooming, Control & Sexual Abuse Begins
48:25 – Living in Silence & Coping with Confusion
1:03:18 – Disclosure: Telling Her Grandmother the Truth
1:15:40 – Police Involvement & Father’s Arrest
1:27:22 – Court Process, Sentencing & Family Impact
1:41:55 – Healing Through Therapy, Community & Advocacy
1:55:30 – The Power of Forgiveness & Moving Forward
2:05:00 – Final Reflections & Resources for Survivors
Christina’s journey is living proof that your story matters, your voice is powerful, and healing is possible. If this episode inspires you, share it with someone who needs encouragement and subscribe for more conversations of truth, resilience, and transformation.
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