Activation warning: this episode contains explicit and graphic descriptions of attempted suicide, physical assault, sexual assault, and rape. Discretionary caution is strongly advised. This episode is not for children. Please use extreme self-care in listening to this episode and seek immediate help through the national suicide hotline by dialing 988 if you are emotionally activated or triggered by the content of this episode. Or if you are activated and need help from the national sexual assault telephone hotline, call 1-800.656.hope (4673). One of the most revealing signs of hidden abuse, torture, and shame would be attempting to eat your way out of feeling attractive. Gaining hundreds of pounds in an attempt to alter your appearance, to hide any perceived attraction you might unwittingly draw, and risking your health and even your life in the process, is undeniably a profound cry for help. When this method fails, perhaps an actual outcry will suffice...resorting to an all-out tantrum, screaming and cursing-out your perpetrator, refusing to perform the obscene acts demanded, pounding fists and feet into the floor while lamenting the ongoing sexual assaults. Yet, this horrific scene only escalates in to more of a catastrophe as you receive a slap across your face and a beating with a belt, leaving you barely able to stand. However, the gravity of the situation compounds further: adding to the hurt, shame, and anguish, the perpetrator is your pastor, and the person administering your punishment for swearing, while at the same time disbelieving your disclosure of sexual assault, is your own mother—who, incidentally, is your pastor's lover. This is an intense story. Is it difficult to listen to? Perhaps. However, it's a story that MUST be told. I am immensely grateful that Cheryl has the courage, fortitude, and strength to share it. But that's not all—wait until you hear about her healing journey. It's a process, not an event, and Cheryl embraces this journey wholeheartedly. Just listen. #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed #safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #ashforduniversity #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience