Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 1403

Tonight's special guest is Joyce Brown from Pensacola, Florida, a grateful recovering alcoholic and a survivor of abuse. "I am very grateful to be alive today," she says. She's been in recovery from alcohol abuse for over 25 years now. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, she followed her folks south, down South to Foley, Alabama, over two decades ago. Joyce says, "When they speak of [making] 'Geographical Changes' in the program they are so very right! All your problems do follow you. My childhood wasn't perfect by any means!" She goes on, "Through years of counseling I learned I had to forgive my parents of their shortcomings in order for me to move on into a more positive light. My parents did the best they could with what they had." Joyce points to "the race issue" as an example of old ideas that can live inside families for generations. "It continues until someone in your family stands up for themselves and puts a stop to it," she points out. Much of Joyce's problems stem from of the poor choices she made in selecting men. "I've been in very abusive relationships throughout my life. I've been in many shelters for abused woman and children. I know the loneliness, isolation, humiliation that abusive relationships bring!" But, she goes on, "If you truly want out, you can get out. There are people out there who want to help you!" She explains, "I have endured so very much pain throughout my life. But if it wasn't for that pain I wouldn't be here today." She's filled with hope for others. "Your life will change in a positive way if you have the desire and willingness to change. Today life is about helping others and giving back to society."