Mariska Hargitay

"Losing my mother at such an early age is the scar of my soul. But I feel like it ultimately made me into the person I am today. I understand the journey of life. I had to go through what I did to be here."

- Mariska Hargitay

"I say to everybody, ‘Adoption is not for the faint of heart.’"

- Mariska Hargitay

"Sexual assault and domestic violence are difficult things to talk about. Talk about them anyway."

- Mariska Hargitay

"Adoption was a bumpy ride – very bumpy. But, God, was it worth the fight."

- Mariska Hargitay

"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step."

- Mariska Hargitay

"Just smiling at someone walking down the street can make the person’s day. It’s all about paying it forward."

- Mariska Hargitay