Beyond the Exam Room: Marie McKenzie on Forensic Nursing After Sexual Assault

In this gripping episode of Wildcide, we sit down with Marie McKenzie, a seasoned Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), to uncover the critical role forensic nurses play in the justice system. Marie shares firsthand experiences from the field, explaining how she conducts forensic exams, supports survivors, and helps build cases against perpetrators. We discuss the emotional toll of the job, the misconceptions about sexual assault investigations, and the changes needed to improve survivor advocacy. This is an eye-opening conversation you don’t want to miss. About our Honored Guest: Once silenced by the aftermath of sexual assault, Marie McKenzie has devoted her life to breaking the silence surrounding the most underreported crime. She champions survivors and equips healthcare providers with tools to deliver compassionate, trauma-informed care. To further this cause, she founded the International Sexual Assault Coaching institute, a platform for advocacy, education, and transformation in the fight against sexual violence. With over two and a half decades of experience as a registered nurse, including her role as a sexual assault nurse examiner in the clinical and community settings, Marie blends her professional expertise with the tools and techniques that facilitated her own healing journey. Renowned for her award-winning and bestselling memoir, Things That Keep Me Up At Night, Marie chronicles her personal odyssey from sexual assault at the age of eleven to her triumphant transformation. Her book serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to find their voices, share their stories, seek support, and embrace a life imbued with purpose. Marie doesn’t shy away from her calling, proudly declaring, “My mission is to remove sexual assault from being the most underreported crime.” When Marie is not educating healthcare providers to care for survivors, she collaborates with various organizations dedicated to helping those affected by diverse traumas. She enjoys the vibrant life of Orlando, Florida, alongside her husband, George. To purchase Marie’s Memoir, CLICK HERE. UK Resources: Rape Crisis England & Wales – https://rapecrisis.org.uk | 24/7 Helpline: 0808 500 2222 Scottish Women’s Aid – https://womensaid.scot Victim Support UK – https://www.victimsupport.org.uk | Supportline: 08 08 16 89 111 International Resources: RAINN (U.S.) – https://www.rainn.org | National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673) End Violence Against Women International – https://evawintl.org The Survivors Trust (UK & International Support) – https://thesurvivorstrust.org