Luke's Battle: Addiction, Abuse, and the Road to Recovery
I was under her control. The choice was following her lead and be able to get high, or to object and be sick because of withdrawal. Manipulation was her greatest tool.
How does a teenager cope with being manipulated and abused by someone they trusted? This episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now' (SCAN) dives into the harrowing story of Luke Wiersma from Dyer, Indiana. At just 16, Luke was preyed upon by a 22-year-old woman who supplied him and his friends with intoxicants, forcing them into sexual acts. Luke's addiction to drugs became the chains that bound him to his abuser. He shares, 'I was under her control.
The choice was following her lead and be able to get high, or to object and be sick because of withdrawal.' The emotional and physical manipulation left deep scars on Luke's mental health and well-being. Hosted by Sheila, this episode isn't just about recounting the trauma; it's about shedding light on the importance of trauma-informed care and prevention efforts. The conversation underscores how crucial it is to understand the impact of trauma and provide support that fosters healing.
Luke's story is a stark reminder of the devastating effects of abuse but also a testament to the resilience and strength of survivors. By sharing his experience, Luke hopes to break the cycle of abuse and offer a glimmer of hope to others in similar situations. Tune in to hear his powerful narrative and learn about the critical role of trauma-informed care in recovery.