Kathy Picard | Sexual Abuse Survivor, Coach, and Advocate

Even with all the statistics and evidence that prove sexual abuse exists, there are people who still think that it’s wrong to talk about it! In a way I understand. It’s tough to talk about sexual abuse—especially the fact that it mostly happens to children.

But we have to talk about it. If we don’t, then it’s like we’re sending a message to people who are being—or have been—sexually abused. “Shhh….

“This is a private thing and we shouldn’t be talking about.”
“This is too embarrassing to talk about!”
“I don’t believe you.”

As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I know the value of talking about what happened. In fact, once I started talking, I didn’t stop! Now I look at the story of my life and can see that it’s really two stories. The first story was the story I was born into. It’s a long story too because I was one of those people who didn’t disclose for a long time. The day I started talking about what was done to me was the day I started taking charge of my story.

I want that for you too. I want you to know that you can change your story. You can stop letting other people decide who you are. It’s not always easy, especially in the beginning, but if I can do it, then I know you can too. You can change your story… and when you do… you will change your world.