Elizabeth Smart has transformed her life since the traumatic events of her abduction 24 years ago. The new documentary, *Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart*, revisits her harrowing kidnapping and sheds light on her journey toward reclaiming normalcy.
Elizabeth Smart’s Abduction and Rescue
In 2002, at age 14, Elizabeth was kidnapped from her home in Salt Lake City by Brian David Mitchell, a family acquaintance. For months, she endured severe trauma until her eventual rescue by police in Sandy, Utah. Her experience has shaped her perspective on life.
Positive Outlook on Life
Today, Elizabeth advocates for survivors and encourages others to understand that recovery is possible. “Even after terrible things happen, you can still have a wonderful life,” she emphasizes.
Family Life and Parenting
In 2012, Elizabeth married Matthew Gilmour, a Scottish native, and they now have three children. Living in Utah, she cherishes her family time and maintains a strong connection to her community. Elizabeth remains vigilant as a parent, prioritizing her children’s safety and teaching them the importance of healthy boundaries.
Approach to Parenting
- She avoids sleepovers to enhance safety.
- Engages in open conversations about body awareness.
- Teaches her children about consent and safety measures.
Advocacy and Support for Survivors
Elizabeth has dedicated her life to raising awareness about sexual violence. She aims to create a safe environment where survivors can share their experiences. “The only shame and guilt belong to the perpetrator,” she states. Elizabeth has also established a survivor fund to assist those in need of financial support for medical expenses and housing.
Recent Projects
Recently, Elizabeth published her third book titled *Detours*, which chronicles her path from trauma to a more normal life. She finds joy in everyday family activities, such as dining together and enjoying outdoor adventures.
Reflections on the Documentary
Elizabeth shared her thoughts on the documentary, praising the filmmakers for their sensitive approach. While the retelling of her story was intense, she appreciated the honesty and thoroughness. The film aims to educate viewers and provide a platform for survivors to be heard.
Connections with Family and Supporters
Elizabeth remains close to her family, particularly her sister, Mary Katherine, who played a critical role in her rescue. Elizabeth credits her father, Ed Smart, for instilling values that continue to guide her life. Even in retirement, he remains active in advocating for child safety and supports other families affected by similar tragedies.
Legacy of Her Captors
Both Brian David Mitchell and Wanda Barzee faced justice for their crimes. Mitchell is serving a life sentence without parole, while Barzee had previously been released after a 15-year sentence. Elizabeth expressed disappointment in her release but noted it added to her compassion for other victims living in fear of their perpetrators.
*Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart* is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering a poignant look into her life and resilience.
