Shield the Vulnerable: Untold Stories – Breaking the Silence
Mary Jo’s journey reveals the long-term impact of child trafficking, the barriers survivors face when seeking help, and the power of reclaiming one’s voice after years of silence.
The Early Years
“The first time I was sex trafficked was by my grandfather when I was five years old,” Mary Jo shares. “Sometimes my mom sold me because there were seven of us and no income. I thought it was just part of being in the family — that someone had to provide food.”Her honesty brings to light how exploitation can begin in the most familiar and trusted environments, often hidden behind family walls.
Finding Her Voice
Despite her experiences, Mary Jo’s story is one of survival and strength. “It doesn’t matter what trauma you went through — it’s possible to go from victim to survivor to thriver,” she says. “I have a family, close friends, and a voice I never had before.”Her transformation inspires hope, showing that recovery is not just survival — it’s rebuilding a meaningful life after pain.
When Reaching Out Isn’t Easy
“I called and said, ‘I’ve been sexually abused, I need help,’” Mary Jo recalls. “The nurse made me feel like I should never have said those words. Instead of two days, she made me wait three weeks.”This moment exposes the challenges survivors face when seeking support — the disbelief, the delays, and the emotional toll of being dismissed.
The Body Keeps the Score
Over time, Mary Jo discovered how her physical pain was rooted in emotional trauma. “They could never figure out what my pain was,” she explains, “but I know now — that’s a result of all the trauma I kept inside. The body keeps the score.”Her reflection echoes the deep connection between mind, body, and healing — reminding us that recovery must address both emotional and physical scars.
Sharing Her Story
“Three years ago, I told my whole story for the first time,” Mary Jo says. “That’s when I realized my calling — to share it and show it’s possible to go from 17 years of hell to having a great life now.”Her decision to speak out has helped countless others find courage to begin their own healing journeys.
Belief and Belonging
“When I was 24, someone in law enforcement was the first person to say, ‘I believe you.’ Those words made such an impact. He’s still my hero.”For Mary Jo, that simple act of belief marked a turning point — proof that compassion and validation can change a life.
Final Thoughts
Mary Jo Ross’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and courage. Her voice gives power to those who still feel unseen and unheard. Through her advocacy and testimony, she reminds us that healing begins the moment someone chooses to listen.“It’s possible to go from victim, to survivor, to thriver.”
Every story shared brings light to the hidden realities of exploitation — and every listener has the power to help shield the vulnerable.
About Mary Jo Ross
Mary Jo Ross is a dedicated advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse (CSA) and sex trafficking. With a mission to partner with survivors and elevate their voices, she uses a survivor-informed lens to drive change through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
Mary Jo has built a career rooted in lived experience and empowerment—organizing events, creating awareness campaigns, and providing platforms where survivors can reclaim their narratives. She believes in shifting the focus from victimhood to purpose, helping individuals recognize their worth and potential beyond their trauma.
Her work emphasizes collaboration and systemic awareness: partnering with professionals, educators, and policy makers to ensure that care systems centre the voices of those impacted. Through every project and partnership, Mary Jo brings authenticity, compassion, and unwavering belief in the possibility of healing and transformation.