Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 3031

Tonight's special guest is Kelly Wallace from Portland, Oregon, a survivor and an employment consultant. She's a frequent podcast guest speaking about her experience as a child sexual abuse survivor and Kelly is at work on a memoir about her experience as an adult survivor of CSA. We'll want to discuss the new book. Her chosen career may have helped with Kelly's recovery, and no doubt she brings her experience to bear with her clients. She's written several articles about her experiences. One, 'Life After Abuse', tells the reader that, at eight, Kelly testified against her paternal grandpa, who was charged with her sexual abuse and rape. "My grandpa was found not guilty", she writes, "I took the not guilty plea hard." Kelly's life after the trial was challenging even with therapy. She struggled all the way through school and developed unhealthy coping mechanisms including drinking and an eating disorder. After college graduation Kelly returned to Oregon and she began to develop a consulting business which succeeded as she got into recovery for alcoholism. "The legal system has many flaws, she says, and often fails victims of child sexual abuse. I was one of those victims, but I am happy to say that I am in a better place today." Kelly has over 18 years experience with the successful Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation. She goes on, "I am a business owner and have overcome addiction. With continued therapy I am determined to grow stronger. I hope my story will inspire you." Kelly's a member of RAINN's Speakers Bureau, and recently penned a piece, "Kelly's Story". She's an active member of the Portland writing community.