Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 2315

Tonight's special guest is Sharonda Hankins Davis from Bolivia, North Carolina, a survivor of childhood sexual and physical abuse who grew up one of the youngest kids in a large family of 14 siblings. Her father was very strict, and they were beaten with a water hose. "My [sexual] abuse started when I was in the 3rd grade," she says. "My abusers would wake me up throughout the night. I would often have nightmares and was unable to sleep." Sharonda’s house had only one bathroom, so there was no privacy when it came to baths. The door was unlocked, and anyone could enter at any time. She remembers seeing her brother fondling her sister. Sharonda’s presence didn't stop him; in fact, he smiled. She relates, “I grew up very angry, afraid, bitter, cyclical, hating ALL my abusers .. and constantly triggered. I had too many failed relationships and attempted suicide several times. To add insult to injury, I was bullied by my abusers. When we did tell about the abuse, nothing was done to stop or prevent it. My Mother closed her eyes to it all. I wanted so bad for her to acknowledge what happened for closure, but she never did. I hated her for many years. However, by God's amazing Grace, I forgave her and my abusers (so glad I did, she passed away Tuesday before Mother's Day 7 months ago).” Sharonda married her high school sweetheart when they were 22 years old. They separated 5 months later and divorced for 4 years. They got back together and remarried. Sharonda continues, “Here we are today 21 years later. Billy saw me at my lowest point and loved me through my worst times. I am a chosen vessel God is using to help others who have been abused. I openly and unashamedly share my story because someone needs to know they too can overcome, love and be loved."