“The hardest thing I’ve ever done!”

Submitted by Corinne Tulk

Moved from anger, to tears, to laughter, Gemma Hickey had her audience riveted as she recounted her story of abuse at the hands of clergy she respected as a child.  As keynote speaker at the Southwestern Coalition to End Violence’s Annual General Meeting on Oct 29, 2015, Ms. Hickey spoke, with such honesty and emotion, of her experiences that led her on a soul searching, awareness-raising journey across this province we all call home, telling the group, “this was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.”

As founder of Pathways, an organization for men and women who have experienced abuse within religious institutions, Ms. Hickey believed trekking across the 900 kilometers, from Port aux Basques to St. John’s, was a great way to improve services for abuse victims.

Community partners attending the AGM were informed of the year’s events held by the Bay St. George Coalition to End Violence, HELP and Peaceful Communities committees.  As well, a session regarding the new Domestic Violence Court to be piloted here in Stephenville, offered information on how and when this service will be available.

For all attending, the day held promise and rejuvenation that they are, and will continue, to make a difference in the area making all aware that ending violence is everyone’s responsibility.

 

For more information on Pathways Foundation go to: https://pathwaysfoundation.wordpress.com/