|
A wonderful read for all parents, teachers, counselors because we need to open our eyes to child sexual assault and help put a stop to this silent epidemic. The sexual abuse of a child creates a devastating family crisis. Parents want to know what to do and say to help their child but they also want to know how to respond to and heal their own emotional turmoil. As a parent, you need to know it's okay and natural to act with disbelief and denial. "Shattered Reality" by author Kimberly Cheryl is a mother's story about the abuse of her daughter and her struggles to over come numerous obstacles. Cheryl thought she could trust her family members. Cheryl thought she knew and could trust the legal system. She was wrong. As a parent, Cheryl couldn't find help for herself and did not know what to expect on this journey with her daughter and her recovery. Furthermore, Cheryl had no idea how much pain she would suffer as well. This is her story and her struggle toward recovery. Some how, some way, Cheryl hopes it will give you hope for your journey as well.
Shattered Reality
Kimberly Cheryl
CreateSpace (2008)
ISBN 9781440404597
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (9/08)
Kimberly Cheryl, in “Shattered Reality,” recounts her traumatic experience and emotional journey after finding out her daughter had been sexually assaulted by her uncle; an uncle that was like a second parent to her immediate family. Once out in the open, she was ostracized by the uncle’s family, as well as other members of the family. However, Kimberly goes on a mission, with the support of her immediate family, to expose her well-known, community-minded uncle.
The author describes the long struggles with the legal system, court battles, and prosecuting attorney to no avail. The case keeps getting thrown out even though there are five witnesses as well as testimonies from authorities that her daughter is telling the truth; indeed she was sexually molested over a three-year period by this man.
“Shattered Reality” contains a testimonial letter from Kimberly’s daughter expressing her emotions and the outcome. It also contains statistics, signs on spotting an abused child, fact sheet, tips, and resources.
Kimberly and her daughter must be commended. They took the risk and are now advocates against sexual assault of children. Kimberly’s daughter volunteers in the community by helping others to overcome the traumatic experience. Kimberly herself is continuing to work for the cause and is engaged in the third round, this time a civil suit, against her uncle.
Kimberly has tenacity and it shows in her writing in “Shattered Reality.” The story is gripping and heart-rending. One can’t help but cheer Kimberly and her daughter on by supporting the cause – bring to justice the perpetrator and show that sexual assault of a child is not acceptable.
|
