Bethany Byrd started 5 Stones Open Door after seeing five of her friends die as a result of abuse. That abuse took several forms over the years, each of which is addressed by the non-profit organization she founded several years ago. They became the five stones of an outreach to people whose lives have been touched by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
One of the things I make sure I do is keep up with as much of the legislation that has some kind of impact on children and the family. It is interesting to see that no matter what piece of legislation comes out, there is a polarizing political effect. One side says it’s good, the other side says its bad, and each has a bucket load of evidence to substantiate their claim. This is usually because from the inception the issue is partisan.
Founder Dr. Margie Jessen DNP and Co-founder Steven H. Wright, retired Chief of Police for the city of Reedley, created the Family Healing Center (FHC) in 2007 with the purpose of providing a holistic abuse center for victims of violent crimes focusing on sexual and physical abuse as well as assisting women and children who witness abuse. In the past, victims of rape, child abuse, and sexual assault endured being interviewed by multiple organizations and agencies, throughout the investigative process.
My name is Julie Lambeth Pitts, and I am the author of the recently released book Scar Wars Forged In Fright. This book is a very powerful read. Some of it is so sad and heartbreaking that at times I had to stop writing because the emotions were washing over me like tidal waves. You see, this is a story about a little girl who was physically, mentally, and sexually abused. This child was raped at eleven and again at sixteen because she did not think anyone would believe her, and so she never told. This child was me.
As we continue our Edgar Allan Poe month, what could be better fitting than the review of a book by a current mystery author who is actually related to Poe! Also at the end of this review is a video interview with Christopher & a chance to win a copy of the book!
