Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 1098

Tonight's special guest is Barbara Hughes from Sewanee, TN, a survivor and activist who wrote a book about child sexual abuse called, "Enfolded in Silence/A Story in Art of Healing from Sexual Trauma in Childhood" Born in New York City, Barbara was assaulted between 3 and 9 years old and says she lived a childhood in denial of her sexual abuse which included sexual torture. "I hid my trauma from everyone, including myself," she writes, "but was very fearful, shy, and acted out my abuse on myself. I grew up and had a career as a sculptor, raised two boys, and got into 12 Step recovery. Before that, I got involved with toxic and abusive men." She explains, "In my 40's, I started having body memories, and in therapy, remembered my repeated trauma, over the process of years. I had an art therapist who was willing to re-mother me in the boundaries of therapy. I was very angry at God." Among other things she did extensive EMDR and turned a corner in her healing. "My abuse is no longer a stone in my heart." She continues, "It has a place of honor inside me, but is at peace. I have had many healers and I am thriving and very grateful." Finally, she wrote her book, and did presentations with images about abuse and healing. "I now facilitate a support group for women survivors of child abuse (ASCA). I continue my art work and volunteer at a food bank. My marriage survived my healing process and we have a good, loving relationship now. I have grandchildren. Family is very important to me. I continue to find venues where I can show and tell about the devastation of child sexual abuse and about how you heal."