La Crosse, Wisconsin – Leigh Collins, a La Crosse native who had relocated to California a few years ago, found herself in a harrowing situation in her new home. Attacked by a man wielding a knife, Collins bravely fought back, ultimately thwarting the assault and changing the course of her life forever. The traumatic incident left her with severe injuries, including multiple stab wounds and nearly severed fingers. The assailant, identified as Rashad Devon Harris, had been stalking Collins for years prior to the attack. Despite not being charged with stalking, Harris received a life sentence for the assault and attempted sexual assault.
Collins, now determined to share her story as a means of empowering and protecting other women, reflected on the importance of being prepared to defend oneself in such situations. She emphasized the significance of setting boundaries and responding decisively to acts of violence. Through her courage and resilience, Collins aims to inspire others to stand up against any form of aggression or intrusion.
Following the ordeal, Collins faced the challenge of coping with the aftermath of the attack, highlighting the lack of resources and support available to survivors of such trauma. Despite the isolation she felt in the aftermath, Collins found solace in the unwavering support of her family and friends. Moving forward, she is focused on healing and channeling her experience into a source of strength and resilience.
Looking ahead, Collins plans to document her journey in a book, sharing her insights and lessons learned from overcoming adversity. By shedding light on her experience, she hopes to raise awareness about the realities of violence and encourage others to speak out and seek help when needed. Her bravery in confronting her assailant serves as a beacon of hope for individuals facing similar challenges.
As Collins continues to heal and reclaim her sense of security and agency, her story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through her courage and determination, she is transforming a traumatic experience into a powerful narrative of survival and empowerment.