From Pain to Purpose
I have brain damage. I cannot work. I am getting better every single day. One of the ways I keep moving forward is by finding ways to contribute. Ever since I was a wee child, I was trying to be of value. When a kid has to navigate child sexual violence before breakfast, it makes […]
The Measure of a Person
This story is deeply personal. I did not share it lightly. I share it for two reasons. First, for survivors of child sexual violence who often learn to survive by twisting themselves into knots to keep the peace, to be liked, to fit in. We become experts at reading the room and accommodating others. That […]
Gratitude in a Bag of Groceries
I am so happy this morning. I went to Nourish East End Food Bank for a bag of groceries and met a wonderful group of people, all showing up at 8:30 am to lend a hand. It was truly beautiful. I also had the chance to meet with the Coordinator of Volunteers, and now I […]
It May Feel Impossible, But It Must Be Done
Ending child sexual violence may feel impossible. But it is possible. And it must be done. 🌞 🩷
Quote of the Day -Margaret Mead
When I feel like throwing in the towel, when I feel like giving up, I read quotes like this. Still here, Dr. Mead. Still trying. Still trying to make a difference. What quote gives you hope, gives you energy, wraps you in love? 🩷 “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can […]
The Day the Sun Shone for Me
When I think about the highlights of my life, the very best parts, my mind always lands here. The parenting part. The loving a child part. That is when everything started to make sense. That is when I understood why I am here. Thirty five years ago today the Canadian sky could not decide what […]
PM Address on International Women’s Day
Prime Minister Mark Carney Address on International Women’s Day Thank you for seeing us, Prime Minister Mark Carney. Imagine a country where ending child sexual violence is a priority. We would all benefit. I voted for you because you understand money. We are in an economic war, and what we see is hard to talk […]
What does your Women’s History Month look like when you survived child sexual violence?
I’m Okay. But I’m Furious.
I’m going to see my 31-year-old nephew in prison next week. I’m terrified. The last time I saw him was shortly before Xmas, he showed up at my door in the middle of the night because I wrote a book that he believed mentioned him by name (my mother put that in his head). He […]
Real Stories, Second Chances
I am pumped. I am proud. I am invited. At 61 years old, I’ll be stepping onto the stage as a keynote speaker at an upcoming event celebrating what it means to move through the world with the intention to be clean and sober — and free. But my story didn’t start there. The first […]