Overview

• Bendixen recounts boarding a camper despite misgivings and being groped by one of two men who later pressed money into her hand.
• She fought back by kicking her assailant until a second man intervened and allowed her to leave.
• Financial pressures led her to ignore her instincts, a decision she now regrets.
• Since the attack, she carries bear spray and a knife on her journeys for protection against both wildlife and potential attackers.
• Bendixen hopes her disclosure will empower other women to trust their gut feelings and speak up about sexual harassment.