Dear Editor,
I want to say a sincere thank you for publishing my story in your paper two weeks ago written by Mary Lynch.
Since you published my story I wish to share with you the positive impact it has on my life. I may have started to take my power back when I first wrote to the radio station with my story, but with seeing it in print have since contacted my niece in Australia, nephews in England and family and friends everywhere, who are now reading what I have always been afraid to tell them. I have also contacted the National Rape Crisis Centre telling them what I have done and to say that I am available to do talks anywhere.
I honestly feel a huge ‘burden’ gone out of my life, I feel 10 feet tall, my confidence and self belief has emerged that I lost before I celebrated my 12th birthday. I can now walk tall, hold my head up and believe in myself again, all the fear is gone, I am no longer afraid to express how “I feel” - I am alive and a whole person.
Mary and I first met seven years ago on a flight to Lanzarote and we have been great friends ever since. We first supported each other as we both struggled with post traumatic stress arising from entirely different circumstances, now working together to help others.
I hope that having my story published in your newspaper will be of a support and a comfort to many people who have experienced trauma by whatever means, showing them that there is light at the end of the tunnel— I have found a new life!
Anyone who wishes to contact me can do so through the centre that Mary Lynch has opened in Foxford to help others in distress, 094 925 7467.
Yours sincerely,
Anne.
