As a way of healing from the horrific abuse she experienced in college, Summer Willis bravely decided to raise her voice for herself and others.
When Willis turned 29 last September, she embarked on a journey of self-healing that took the form of running 29 marathons in one year.
Partnering with the UCLA Rape Treatment Center, her mission is to advocate for survivors of rape and raise funding for support and services.
Willis said two out of three rapes go unreported, and she was one of those who didn't report it after getting abused as a sophomore in college.
She told Heroes Host Heather Jordan, "I didn't tell my friends, I didn't tell my family. I kind of just went into a dark place. And this year is about getting more than just my own justice. It's about getting justice for women."
On March 17, Willis will run the L.A. Marathon and plans to finish the last mile with a twist.
"I'm going to put on a pink sequin ball gown with a sash that says, walk a mile in our shoes," said Willis, planning to wear a pair of heels as a show of strength, power, and beauty.
Willis will also attempt to break a record on March 8, by running the NYC Marathon route with a 40-pound mattress on her back!
The cause Willis is running for is Strength Through Strides.
A statement on the GoFundMe page says STS is "An empowerment and support program focusing on helping women overcome sexual assault... through counseling and holistic retreats."
Willis says it's been challenging, but she is making a difference.
She's a survivor, a role model for women, and a mother who inspires people around the world, making Summer Willis our KNX Hero of the Week!
You can connect with Summer and learn more about her inspiring story here.
Check out all our KNX Heroes here.
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