Been there, done that - and now I'm doing something about it for others!

Carolyn - posted on 01/10/2010 ( 1 mom has responded )

Hi to all. I was molested as a child between the ages of 7-15 years. At 18 I moved into an abusive marriage that evolved into domestic violence. I always focused on protecting my two children from the abuse, violence and rage that was the norm in our household. Often, I felt guilty for not getting them out of the situation sooner. Today they are both happily married and have wonderful families of their own - FUNCTIONAL families - and I am so proud of both of them - their spouses and all 4 of my precious grandgirls.

I captured my experiences in my memoirs, which was published in 2008: ORANGE BLOSSOM WISHES: Child Molested, Woman Abused - Her Victorious Journey to Freedom. After 16+ years of abuse, humiliation and degradation, I got a divorce. My life has been filled with trauma and junk, but once I got to the other side of that dark place, I decided I was going to take all the evil and turn it to the good, to help others find their own place of restoration, hope and encouragement. There IS a light at the end of the tunnel, and it ain't no train!

Since the book's release, I have had the honor of traveling around the country, speaking and motivating others, working with organizations who help victims of domestic violence and rape/molestation/abuse, and have become a strong advocate working with them to accomplish an awareness of domestic violence. The statistics say for every 3 who read this, at least 1 of you will have been a victim of domestic violence.

My strong desire is now to move into working with college-aged girls, military spouses and faith-based groups, helping to educate the latter in a more successful way to keep victims safe. Any help you can afford in those areas will be appreciated.

Also, EverydayHealth.com has asked me to become a regular contributor for their website. My blog on Emotional Wellbeing captures a lot of information and encouragement for those dealing with depression, abuse and domestic violence. At one time, I felt the only way out was suicide. Now I have everything to live for.

Please feel free to visit my blog and/or my website, and drop me a line. I am truly here to share how I managed to get past all the darkness and step into a glorious place of light, love and life.

http://www.orangeblossomwishes.com

http://www.everydayhealth.com/blogs/emot...

Hugs to all,
Carolyn S. Hennecy