Open letter to the predator who followed me during my mid-week run
If you are a woman who runs, or care about one who does, please consider sharing my message below.
I prefer to run alone, but I always run in daylight. I change my route to keep things interesting, but I stay on large roads. I wear earbuds, but I am always vigilant.
I have no idea what you were trying to do, but you weren't very subtle, following me for almost 2K, and doubling back 5 times. I know your license plate, your car colour and make, and even what you look like. I've reported you to the police because I know you will probably do this again to some other female runner out there (possibly in my neighbourhood), and I want police to know about you.
I shouldn't have run in front of your car after you tried to cross my path twice. I should have stopped at least one of the people I saw to ask for a phone. Maybe I was lucky and you were just practicing. Well, now I know better, and so do the police and my city councillor's office. I doubt the police can charge you with anything now, but I believe that they will. I will tell everyone I know to remember to be vigilant and to report anything like this as it could save a life.
While I am still wondering if I really did lose you in the end, or if you just gave up, you won't spoil my holiday, and I thought you should know this. While I am right now hypersensitive about locking the doors while I am in the house, I know that I am safe.
You probably don't even live in my community, but if you do, be warned. We know about you.
If you can, please get some help for yourself.
Unsigned
About The Author
I am a social media entrepreneur, communications professional, part-time school teacher and community leader living in Nepean, Ontario. I am also a hockey goaltender, political hack and most importantly, an advocate... More