I can’t remember what life was like before my trauma started. It affects me, every single day.

But I want to explain what 2020 has been like for me. Not the Pandemic or the Level 3 restrictions.
The part in the middle of all of this when I sent an email and asked One in Four for help.

Yeah 2020 has been like “two steps forward, and one step back." But that’s still a step forward for
me, you see, it’s been the year I asked for help, and that’s why I wanted to share my story.

My abuser had affected my life so much, I knew I didn’t want him to keep doing it to others and I
also wanted people who are struggling to know you can win the battle you can make things better.
Even when things are tough like now during the current restrictions, you can get back on track.

I have had my tough times since March; the restrictions on daily life have taken away my routines.
My friends are everything to me, not going to the cinema, or meeting up for coffee with them has
been tough. These were the routines that helped me fill my life with good positive actions. The more
time alone the more and more the memories of abuse overwhelmed me.

I found the number of One in Four easy enough on the web , and sent an email. I got a response the
following morning with information about The Advocacy Team and how they could help me.
I am 23 now, it started when I was 5. I have a long road ahead of me, but at least I have
professionals helping me now.

I really didn’t know where to start or anything about the legal system. But between Zoom calls and
emails, they have been here for me. Showing me the options and guiding me through the process.

One in four helped me make a Garda Statement and said when the time comes they will be there in
the court room with me. I just get the feeling I can rely on them, they will be here for me, and that
finally I am standing up to him, my father, my abuser.

If you suffered sexual abuse as a child and would like to get support please email our team on
[email protected] or leave a message on 01 662 4070