What are you looking for?
Featured Topics
Select a topic to start reading.
Swing or You're Gonna Die - Adrian Estrella
Created By HeartSupport
Share This
Share this post on FacebookShare this post on TwitterShare this post on RedditShare this post on TumblrShare this post on Google+Was this video helpful?
If you’ve ever been bullied or abused, this video is for you. If you are suffering from depression and self-harm, this video is for you. If you are a human with a heart, this video is for you too!
Adrian Estrella from the band Assuming We Survive shares intimate details about his abusive father growing up, joining the army, and what to do if you’re being abused.
Forced to switch from school to school growing up, and make new friends each time, Adrian dealt with a lot of bullying. If that wasn’t bad enough, his father had a drinking problem and would abuse Adrian too.
Adrian recalls his dad pointing a gun at him, putting the gun in his mouth, and one horrific night where his dad grabbed him by the neck and started punching him relentlessly. As Adrian began to lose consciousness he remembers telling himself “swing or you’re gonna die”. Luckily, he was able to get on top of his dad and defend himself to the point where he could run away.
In order to survive, Adrian lived under a bridge for 3 months and shined shoes until he had enough money to buy a plane ticket to Puerto Rico where he would then enlist in the Army.
Through all of Adrian’s tough times, music was always his safe haven. He chose to follow that passion and is now the lead singer for Assuming We Survive.
If you’re going through an abusive situation, it is essential that you remember not to blame yourself. Adrian also advises that you shouldn’t ever be afraid to reach out and talk to someone.
You are not alone and it will only tear you up if you continue to suppress your emotions. If you found strength through Adrian’s story, we hope you’ll share it with someone who could benefit from hearing it too.