In this powerful memoir, Suzanne portrays how she navigates a childhood pervaded with violence, abuse and neglect and the strategies she develops to resist her abusers and protect her younger siblings.

Out of the turmoil and brutality of her childhood experiences, Suzanne’s strength and resilience is forged as she draws on comfort and courage from within, however the devastating consequences of her childhood would then be mirrored in her married life.

Suzanne’s increasing use of alcohol to numb the pain of the past would eventually become a deadly addiction which would almost destroy the life she had worked so hard to create for herself and her three children, however her recovery would be the key to true freedom.

The significant events which changed the trajectory of her life path and her fortitude and hope are woven throughout her story.

Today, Suzanne has a degree in psychology and sociology and a diploma in abuse counselling. From victim to survivor to advocate, Suzanne captures how she perfected the skills learned in her early life and the knowledge gained from her formal education to utilise in her career as a child protection caseworker for the past twenty-three years.

Message from the Author

Inspirational survivor narrative.

Building resilience and transforming pain into purpose is a process. It takes time.

14% of Australians over the age of 18 have experienced child abuse and 90% are abused by someone they know.

It is estimated 11.3% of Australian adults have experienced violence from a partner and 1 woman per week is murdered by a current or former partner.

Know the warning signs of grooming.

The pain of being a victim of child abuse or domestic violence can trigger substance abuse and women who experience abuse are 15 times more likely to abuse alcohol.

It can be difficult to understand why women stay in abusive relationships, however, acts of resistance can take many forms including small acts and thoughts that may go unnoticed by other people. Remaining with the abuser can also be an act of resistance due to fear of being killed or losing children.

Surviving child abuse, domestic violence and addiction is a multifaceted healing process.

I feel privileged to have written my memoir and to have had it published by Echo Books.

It is my greatest desire that my words may bring empowerment, knowledge and hope to those who have experienced aspects of my journey.

May my story bring you comfort that you are not alone and reassurance that support and healing is available.

You are worthy of being a survivor just like me.