Fear She Felt From Stalking and Cyber Danger: Her Story

She was a fitness and nutrition blogger, a high-profile real estate agent, and a regular guest on local radio and TV shows for her nonprofit work. She once lived a life in the public eye. However, her world turned upside down when she became a victim of stalking and cyber danger, feeling an ever-present fear from the threat looming over her.

Irene Gabelnick is our guest. Irene's life, once vibrant and public, was invaded by a relentless stalker. This stalking escalated to such a degree that she no longer felt safe anywhere, not even in her own home. The trauma forced her to change her daily routines and alter her public appearances, both in real life and on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Initially, Irene believed stalking was an issue reserved for celebrities, but her ordeal proved otherwise. Before the stalking began, Irene was dedicated to organ donation advocacy and had never felt threatened. Eventually, she sold her house, took measures to enhance her safety, and became more cautious and aware of her surroundings.

Irene's story and interview is featured on our podcast available on Apple Podcasts Spotify, our website and most major podcast outlets. She shares the fear she felt from stalking and the cyber danger she faced, detailing how she rebuilt her life after such trauma. Her experience serves as a chilling reminder that if it could happen to Irene, it could happen to anyone.

Stalking often involves perpetrators known to the victim, such as ex-partners or acquaintances, but it can also come from strangers. It can escalate over time, affecting people regardless of race, culture, gender identity, age, or sexual orientation.

Common stalking behaviors include:

    Repeated calls, text messages, emails, or social media posts
    Following the victim or showing up at places they frequent
    Using technology to track and disseminate personal information
    Threatening the victim and their loved ones

Stalking is illegal in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and on tribal and federal lands, but the definitions and consequences vary by jurisdiction.

National Stalking Statistics:

    Approximately 15% of women and 6% of men in the U.S. have experienced stalking.
    Young people are at higher risk, with over 50% of female and 30% of male survivors first stalked before age 25.
    More than 80% of stalking survivors knew their stalker in some capacity.
    Current or former partners are the most common perpetrators for both female and male survivors.

Stalking can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences. Irene Gabelnick’s story underscores the importance of awareness and the need for stringent measures to protect victims of stalking and cyber danger. You can find more information about her books and learn more about her services on social media and her website.

I met Irene Gabelnick in the Clubhouse Social Audio app, which is free. You can follow me there at this url. Irene takes an active role in Clubhouse and hosts multiple rooms and she has authored several books, you can get details about her books on her website.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.