🧠Start healing today with our #sponsor BetterHelp and get 10% off your first month by going to:https://www.betterhelp.com/ichoosehealthDarlene Lekowski carried the secret of childhood sexual abuse within her family for more than 50 years. When she finally spoke up, one of the people she accused sued her for defamation.In this powerful conversation, Darlene shares why she remained silent, how trauma affected her relationships and mental health, the signs parents should look for, and how she learned to release shame, break free, and live forward.Darlene also discusses her memoir, Shattering Silence, her legal victory, survivor advocacy, and why it is never too late to begin healing.Content note: This episode discusses childhood sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, trauma, and violence.CONNECT WITH DARLENE LEKOWSKIWebsite:https://www.darlenespeaksup.com/Instagram: / darlenelekowski Buy the book:https://www.darlenespeaksup.com/the-bookSurvivors Solidarity March:https://www.survivorssolidaritymarch....Resources:https://www.darlenespeaksup.com/resou...CHAPTERS00:00 The secret Darlene carried for 50 years02:50 Meet Darlene Lekowski03:37 Why she stayed silent06:14 How abuse changes safety and trust10:02 Understanding sibling sexual trauma and abuse11:29 Shame and protecting the family14:09 When hidden trauma begins to surface15:30 The unseen effects of trauma17:54 The moment Darlene finally spoke up20:19 Her brothers’ responses22:31 Telling her children the truth23:57 Sued for defamation25:35 Living around the people who abused her28:48 Winning in court did not bring healing31:12 Choosing peace and living forward32:32 Apologies, denial, and family division37:32 Does Darlene wish she had spoken sooner?38:23 Why children need language for abuse41:14 Writing Shattering Silence44:33 Misconceptions about sibling sexual abuse46:16 Signs parents should look for49:50 The effect on the wider family53:12 The Speak Your Truth Act54:34 What letting go really means56:35 Darlene’s advice to survivors57:49 Where to find Darlene and her bookIf this conversation helped you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need to hear Darlene’s story.🔔 Subscribe & Connect with I Choose Health:
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