Acid Attack Survivor Shares Her Inspiring Journey of Healing and Advocacy

The remarkable story of an acid attack survivor, who has transformed her traumatic experience into a powerful journey of healing and advocacy, offers hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Thirteen years ago, she woke up from a three-month coma after being brutally attacked by her ex-partner, Richard, who threw acid on her, leaving her with severe burns and life-altering injuries.

Throughout her recovery, this survivor, whose identity is kept anonymous for her protection, decided to channel her anger and pain into fighting for the rights of acid attack survivors. She shares that her anger initially stemmed not only from the attack itself but also from the doctors who kept her alive against her will. However, her outlook has changed over time.

It all began on December 1, 2009, when she answered a knock on her door and encountered her ex-partner Richard. Before she could react, he threw acid on her body, causing excruciating pain and terrifying burns. She managed to make a distress call but feared for her life as her attacker continued to assault her.

Eventually, help arrived, and she was rushed to the hospital where she fought for her life. The survivor underwent numerous operations, including skin grafts, the amputation of a finger and ear, and removal of an eye. In total, she has endured a staggering 114 surgeries.

While on her journey to physical recovery, she also sought justice for herself by actively cooperating with the police investigation. Richard was charged with attempted murder and stood trial for his heinous crime. Despite his guilt being established, he never once looked at his victim throughout the proceedings. He was eventually convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Further investigations revealed additional sinister crimes committed by Richard, including the murder of a 16-month-old baby in 1988. This survivor’s courageous actions had led to his second trial and an additional 17 years in prison for the heinous act.

Today, this inspiring survivor utilizes her voice to raise awareness about the challenges faced by acid attack survivors worldwide. She acknowledges the pivotal role played by Acid Survivors Trust International (ASTi), an organization she collaborates with closely. ASTi has launched a report encouraging companies to take responsibility for the procurement, storage, distribution, and accountability of acid, aiming to prevent future attacks. The survivor also advocates for stricter regulations surrounding the sale of sulfuric acid in her home country of Belgium, proposing measures such as secure storage and mandatory identification for purchase.

Embracing her role as an advocate, the survivor actively participates in conferences and events both in Belgium and internationally. She shares her harrowing experience through her book, Vitriolée!, and speaks at schools, fostering awareness and understanding. Her activism keeps her busy, but she finds immense joy in seeing her two grandchildren grow.

This survivor’s extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation serves as a beacon of hope, proving that even in the darkest of moments, one can find the strength to heal and make a difference. ASTi, the Belgian Parliament, and even HRH Princess Anne have recognized her courage and commitment to change.