Laurie Purcell: Triumph Over Trauma and the Journey to Healing
It is so good for the soul when you're laughing, no matter how, how, how you feel the laughter then all of a sudden, sort of like, takes over some people I put to sleep.
Have you ever wondered how someone can endure the most unimaginable suffering and still find a way to smile? Laurie Purcell from Bay Shore, New York, has lived through horrors that many of us can't even fathom. In this gripping episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now', Laurie, a returning member of the NAASCA family, opens up about her harrowing childhood experiences and her incredible journey towards healing.
Born into a family plagued by severe mental illness, Laurie faced relentless physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Her father was a violent pedophile, her mother was psychotic and prone to violent outbursts, and her brother was brain damaged. At just four years old, Laurie was thrown out of a second-story window by her brother, only to be beaten by her mother while suffering from a broken back.
The neglect she experienced left her with lifelong physical ailments, including the need for full leg braces. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Laurie’s spirit remained unbroken. She recounts her story with a blend of raw honesty and unexpected humor, revealing moments of resilience that kept her going. From learning to use the stove at a young age to finding joy in making patches with words on them, Laurie’s story is one of survival and hope.
This episode also highlights the importance of trauma-informed care and advocacy for abuse survivors. Laurie’s journey underscores the critical need for programs like Winona's House that support at-risk children in our communities. While her story is difficult to hear at times, Laurie’s infectious laughter and positive outlook remind us that healing and joy are possible, even in the face of profound trauma. Tune in to hear Laurie's inspiring story of survival and discover the strength of the human spirit.