Stolen Innocence: Overcoming Abuse and Advocating for Child Protection with Erin Merryn

In this powerful episode of the HEAL with Kelly Podcast, I speak with Erin Merryn, an internationally recognized author, speaker, and child abuse prevention activist. Erin shares her harrowing journey of surviving child sexual abuse, which ultimately led to her becoming a fierce advocate for child protection and body safety education. Disclaimer: The following episode of HEAL with Kelly features discussions about child sexual abuse and personal body safety education. The content may be sensitive and potentially triggering for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. The information shared in this episode is intended for informational and educational purposes and should not replace professional advice or guidance. If you need to disclose sexual abuse, please seek help from a trusted professional or contact local authorities. Get 24/7 Support from The National Sexual Assault Hotline. Go to Rainn.Org or CALL 800.656.HOPE (4673) Recounting the traumatic experiences that stole her innocence, Erin emphasizes the long path to healing and the importance of breaking the silence and speaking out. Despite facing significant resistance, her relentless advocacy has led to her pioneering of Erin's Law - legislation she created and has gotten passed in 38 states and is now reaching internationally as far as Canada, Australia, and Kerala, India. She shares stories of survivors who, inspired by her work, found the courage to speak out, and highlights the critical need for comprehensive personal body safety education. Erin also offers practical advice for parents on how to teach personal body safety at home, emphasizing open communication, understanding safe versus unsafe touch, teaching how to identify trustworthy adults, and distinguishing between safe and unsafe secrets. Erin speaks about the power of forgiveness and transforming something negative into something positive. Her goal is to empower parents and children alike to protect themselves and speak up against abuse.   This episode is a testament to Erin's incredible resilience and her unwavering commitment to protecting children. It sheds light on the often-ignored issue of child sexual abuse and offers hope and guidance for survivors and advocates alike. LINKS: Erin Merryn Website: http://www.erinmerryn.net/ Erin’s Law Website: https://www.erinslaw.org/ Erin's Law Foundation Website - https://erinslawfoundation.org/ Erin Law Foundation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erins_law_foundation/ The Cat Named Carrot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_cat_named_carrot/ Stolen Innocence Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3YAenQo Upcoming Erin's Law Documentary: https://www.erinslawfilm.com/ SPONSORS: JENNI KAYNE: Go to https://www.jennikayne.com/ and use code HEAL15 to receive 15% OFF your first order. LUME: Go to https://lumedeodorant.com/ and use code HEAL. New customers GET 15% OFF ALL Lume products with our exclusive code - and if you combine the 15% off with the already discounted starter pack, that equals over 40% off their Starter Pack! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices