There are so many people to thank – Elroy, my partner, for always standing by me, loving me when I am not very lovable and listening to me for hours on end. For being the broad shoulders I have needed so many times, and for always being truthful with me even when I didn’t really want the truth.
Karl, my son – for teaching me what it is to love.
My best friend, Gail – without you, I would not be the woman I am today. You give me unconditional love and strength, and always have my back.
Kerry, my friend – you get me like no other, you hold me up or make me laugh, whichever I need.
Nicky – my honorary sister. We have been through a lot and you have always been by my side, with love and support.
Vicky from the abuse survivors’ support group – you are an angel. You got me through the toughest year of my life and you hold a special place in my heart.
Linda Watson-Brown, my ghostwriter – you have supported me and showed me that I am worthy, and you never gave up on me, waiting until the time was right for us to do this.
Ciara and everyone at John Blake Publishing – for giving me this chance to share my story, to give my sister and me a voice and hopefully to help other abuse survivors to find their own voice.
Winston, my gorgeous, big, soft, adorable dog, who has brought such happiness into my life and who has made me realise just how much animals can bring to our world when we give them the unconditional love they offer us. I won’t forget all those other poor creatures who were brought into our childhood and then discarded just as quickly, but Winston has mended my heart just a little.