About a month later, another U.S. cycling legend will hop back onto his bike for a ride that may not garner as many headlines, but which may increase awareness and assistance for a pervasive problem in American society: the sexual abuse of boys.
On Aug. 8 in southern California, Greg Lemond (who twice topped the Tour podium) will lead "Le Tour de Montecito," a fundraising ride for 1in6, an organization that is dedicated to helping men who endured unwanted or abusive sexual experiences in childhood.
The following is from the organization's website:
Researchers estimate that 1 in 6 men have experienced unwanted or abusive sexual experiences before age 16. This is likely a low estimate, since it doesn't include noncontact experiences, which can also have lasting negative effects."I know first-hand how the pain and shame of having been abused as a child can affect one's life," LeMond wrote in a welcome letter on the 1in6 website. "In looking back over my own life, I can tell you that no joy has been greater than being with my wife and children without the 'dark cloud' of shame and guilt that my childhood abuse caused me."
If you've had such an experience, or think you might have, you are not alone.
If you wonder whether such an experience may be connected to some difficulties or challenges in your life now, you are not alone. ...
Our mission also includes serving girlfriends, wives, partners, family members and friends by providing information and support resources on the web.
Sexual abuse survivors often endure long-lasting emotional trauma, which without treatment can have effects that range from disruptive to devastating.
Labels: trauma, sexual abuse
Posted By: Aspen/CRC