Going public to help MS

[crisispoint]

At this stage in recovery, I don't know if this is a good idea, but I feel so indebted to this site (in such a short time) and I really am struggling financially (which is why I'm not a member yet) that I have to do something to help MS.

What I'm thinking of is going public with my abuse to the press in a limited way (so's not to hurt family members and protect myself from lawsuits, etc., until I'm really ready to fight the b*****d legally) to raise awareness of male sexual assault and MS' financial dilemma.

Anyone's thoughts would be appreciated.

Peace and love,

Scot

 

[Richard Gartner PhD]

Dear Scot:

That is an incredibly generous offer you are thinking of making. I caution you, however, to think of yourself first.

MaleSurvivor certainly needs all the help it can get right now. We have not exaggerated our situation in any way. However, you have to be very sure that you are at a point in your recovery where you can withstand whatever will come your way after a public dislosure. There is no reason for you to sacrifice yourself to MaleSurvivor. If you are in therapy, consult your therapist before making this move. If you are not in therapy, consult a trusted confidant. Then, if you want to proceed, think through very carefully the best way to make your points.

BTW don't forget that you can join MaleSurvivor for only $35, and even that can be waived if you are willing to put in some "sweat equity" (i.e., do some work for the organization).

All the best,

Richard Gartner
President
MaleSurvivor

 

[Muldoon]

Scot I agree with Richard that it is important to think of yourself first.

What I'm thinking of is going public with my abuse to the press in a limited way

It is hard to talk with the press in a limited way. You can't control what they print so be careful of what you say. I was interviewed last month about why I was going to the MS conference by a reporter from the ST. Paul newspaper. Lots of new memories came flooding out when I read the story in the paper. I would still do it again but I wasn't ready for all those new memories. The article is posted in the US News forum. Do most of your family and firends know about you being abused? Don't want them to read it in the paper first.

There is other ways that you can help Male Survivor. Ask the people who knows about your SA if they could contrib some money. Also find out about the foundations in your area and see if any would be likly canidates to help. Foundations have their own guide lines for giving so it will take some work to find the right one willing to give. You would be going public with your story but not to everyone this way.

I have been talking to the foundation around here in MN but it is moving slowly. I know that I will find 1 that will give. If you call and they say that giving to Male Survivor is not part of their Mission statement ask who would be a likly to help. You would be surprised how many small foundation there are.

Good luck with your healing and do check into becoming a sweat equity member of MS. Tom