Amelia’s stepfather was convicted of sexually abusing her. She was invited to make a victim impact statement at his sentencing hearing, and she was anxious about it. He would be there, listening to everything she said. Facing him felt scary, even though she knew he couldn’t hurt her anymore. She was also still grieving the loss of the person that was a father to her, before the abuse. What could she say to the judge – and to him – to fully express what he took from her and what her life had been like because of it?  

Amelia’s counselor helped her work on her statement for the hearing and, together, they translated her feelings into words. She wanted her stepfather to know everything he took from her and their family – that she still flinched when anyone tried to hug her, and always looked over shoulder in case someone was coming up behind her. How she quit the wrestling team because she couldn’t bear the idea of anyone touching her. How deep down she worried that the next man who said he loved her would end up hurting her.  

And Amelia also wanted him to know everything she had gained since. She was feeling stronger every day. She had joined the track team and the coach said she had good speed. Her siblings were sleeping in their own beds again, without nightmares. Her mom was back, and they were building a new life that he would never be a part of. She knew none of what he had done was her fault. With our facility dog Tona at her feet, Amelia faced the judge, took a deep breath and began to speak.  

Child abuse takes away so much from children - their control over their bodies, their feelings of safety, their willingness to trust. Together, we can help them take it back. With your support, children can find their voice again and feel empowered to use it. This is one of the most important parts of healing; thank you for making it possible.