Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 2708

Tonight's special guest is Elaine Crocker from Fredericksburg, Virginia, who was sexually abused in her family starting at about 5 years old, as well as being raped later by neighborhood boys at 11. She says, "I experienced drug addiction for about 10 years, I would say that I am hyper vigilant, I don't trust easily, I'm very careful about my interactions with men. I have been in therapy in the past for short periods at a time. I am writing my autobiography and felt that therapy wouldn't hurt as I writing about things that bring up feeling and thoughts, so I am beginning therapy again. "She goes on, "My journey started with drug rehab, I had to get off the drugs first and foremost. In rehab I began to get counseling and opened up about my experiences with sexual abuse. Talking about it was helpful. After rehab I was very involved in the Narcotics and Alcohol Anonymous program, where I was able to share and hear other people's stories and healing process which helped me tremendously in getting my life on track." Elaine explains that she's much better now. "For the most part I am at peace, my life is calm and quiet, I have a few close confidants, my faith in God sustains me more than anything else. I volunteer with RCASA (Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault), I've spoken on panels for them, I was involved in some SAAM online events, I work on their online Support Group." What does she now know? "First, it was not my fault. I carried blame and shame that did not belong to me. The road to recovery is long but worth it. Tell, tell, tell. Seek/accept help. I was a victim but I am a survivor. Yet I Stand!"