Recovery for SistaHailstorm

Tiahui Ya' at'eeh  my name is April " Hailstorm" Santa Anna. Many of you know me as SistaHailstorm. I am a two spirited (Lesbian) Indigenous Artist,  At risk youth / drug and alcohol counselor, native community and social justice activist, emcee, personal trainer, MMA coach and fighter amongst other things I proudly respresent.  On July 17th, 2017 I was a victim of a violent hate crime in Corona, CA. I was violently attacked ny a white male three times my size and weight with a knife after calling me racist homphobic slurs including his repeated " dirty brown bitch, fucken ugly nasty dyke bitch, you fucken brown bitch" and so much more. This man attacked me with the intention of killing me because of my race and sexual preference . Being a native openly gay strong woman doesn't give any man or person the right to hurt you and physically assault you.  I did what I needed to do and that was to save my life by doing what came natural for me and that is martial arts / self defense. I survived but with many bodily injuries due to the size and weight of this indivual. I was left with severe swelling and bruising inside my throat,  a severe concussion, both knees with internal damage and several injuries to my back which I now have to go to physical therapy for. I have been suffering from heavy depression, isolation,  anxiety and PTSD.  I have suffered in more ways than one since the attack including financial distress from being out of work for over 3 months. I am at risk of losing my home, my car amongst other basic necessities needed to  live; things I have spent my whole life building and working hard for. As a professional athlete I am not able to compete and fight. As a trainer Im not able to work because I rely on my body and physical and mental strength to help my clients reach their goals. I can  no longer stay silent. My voice and my story matter, I am a native woman survivor of a hate crime in America. My Life matters and I did not deserve this, I want people to be aware of the level of rising hate we are now facing in our communities as Indigenous colored two spirited gay lesbian people. Martial Arts and the heart of a Warrior saved my life but I need help and I need healing. My voice needs to be heard because I am not the only one , I am one of many women who have survived a violent attack  by the hands of man. I am asking for all those that hear my story spread the word to bring awareness and for those who can financially help please donate to help with saving my home, car and medical expenses. I want to heal and I now know I cant do that alone. I need my people and my community. I love you all and I promise you I will rise again, I will make music again, I will step in the octagon again, I will not stop fighting for what is right and justice is served. This is for all woman warriors. Thank you for hearing my story and sharing. I give thanks and gratitude for all your support. I raise my hands to all you who continue to build up our communities, youth and people.  Now is the time to heal and humble myself by  asking for help.  Thank you and special thanks to my wife who has been with me from the begininng, who has seen what noone else has seen my suffering,  my breakdowns, my pain and depth of  PTSD.  I  truly appreciate your time and love.