Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 2601

Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 2601

In this emotionally charged episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now,' Susan Glandon joins hosts Penelope Benes and Pamela Lockridge to share her poignant story of surviving childhood abuse. Susan recounts her experiences growing up in a mostly loving family where she suffered abuse at the hands of her stepfather, beginning at the tender age of three.

Despite the challenges she faced, Susan's tale is one of resilience and hope, as she navigated through years of trauma and emerged as an advocate for survivors. Susan's journey was marked by profound challenges, including the struggle to communicate her needs, an experience she attributes to the oppressive environment she endured. Her brother, a supportive figure, would often speak for her, a coping mechanism that highlights the complex dynamics within her family.

Susan talks candidly about the emotional and physical abuse, emphasizing the importance of breaking the silence that perpetuates such cycles. The podcast delves into the mission of NAASCA, the National Association of Adult Survivors of Child Abuse, which aims to prevent child abuse and provide paths to recovery. NAASCA's approach is twofold: educating the public to dismantle taboos surrounding childhood sexual abuse and offering hope and healing through various support systems.

A significant part of Susan's recovery involved writing her book, 'Eighteen Years: Childhood with a Sex Predator,' which serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a beacon of hope for other survivors. Through her story, Susan encourages others to find meaning in their experiences and embark on a healing journey, emphasizing that life's challenges should not overshadow the potential for personal growth and positive change.

The episode concludes with Susan expressing gratitude for the platform provided by NASCA, which allows her to share her story with a global audience. Her parting message is one of empowerment: life is great, and survivors should focus on caring for themselves and others. Susan's words underscore the importance of advocacy, awareness, and the collective effort required to combat child abuse.

This episode is a testament to the strength of survivors and the vital role of community support in fostering recovery and healing.