Thousands of survivors with their own story gathered at Waterloo Park in downtown Austin Saturday.

Courtney Sanchez is one of those with a story to tell.

"Seven and a half years ago I had to go to Safe Place with my two children because of a domestic violence situation I was in," Sanchez said.

Like many women in attendance, it took a lot of courage for Sanchez to seek help.

"Fear of not being able to financially take care of yourself, fear of making your abuser angry. Fear is what keeps women from leaving a situation," she said.

Today, Sanchez and her children don't have to fear anymore.

After getting help from at SafePlace, she said her life has transformed.

Still, every year women die trying to leave violent relationships.

That's why Sanchez took part in the walk, remembering and honoring those who have lost their lives. She also showed up to help raise funds for SafePlace.

Julia Spann, executive director of Safe Place, said the organization hopes to raise more than $180,000 to provide services to women who need help.

"It's such a time to come out as a community and to support survivors of sexual and domestic violence, but also as a community to say we do not accept these crimes and we're going to walk and show that we care about these issues," Spann said.

Survivors and supporters brought daisies to remember victims who are no longer here.

Sanchez said they're also reminded each year that they're one step closer to their goal.

"To help other women and hopefully inspire them to go out and do the same thing to get out in their community and find other women and say, hey this is not what you deserve. There is an option," she said.