GAINESVILLE, Florida – When Kathy Kleiner Rubin was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 20, she knew she was a survivor. But what she didn’t know was that her strength would be put to the ultimate test when she became one of the survivors of the notorious serial killer, Ted Bundy.
In January 1978, Bundy broke into the college house where Kathy lived with other female students. He viciously attacked Kathy and her roommate, Margaret, leaving them with life-threatening injuries. Tragically, he went on to kill two other young women in the same night.
Despite the trauma and excruciating physical pain, Kathy’s survival instinct kicked in. After numerous surgeries and grueling recoveries, she found the strength to testify against Bundy in the criminal trial. In 1979, Bundy was found guilty of multiple counts of murder and attempted murder, ultimately facing the death penalty for his heinous crimes.
Over a decade later, on the day of Bundy’s execution, Kathy wept not only for the victims who lost their lives but also for the closure she finally found. Having emerged from such a harrowing experience, Kathy has dedicated her life to helping others survive trauma and find light in the darkness. She co-authored a book, “A Light in the Dark,” to give voice to Bundy’s victims and to inspire hope in others who have faced adversity.
Kathy’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of survivors and the importance of seeking justice for victims of violent crimes. “A Light in the Dark” is not just a memoir of survival, but a beacon of hope for those who may be fighting their own battles.