My mum is, without exception, the strongest person I know.
Over the years mum & I have spoken extensively about my
experiences of sexual abuse as a child but this is the first time
that she is seeing my words in print. She did not want to read
the draft, before it went into book form, saying that she would
be happy to read it after it was published. That, in itself shows
the amazing woman she is.
My work is almost exclusively focused on childhood trauma
and my own experiences do in some ways influence that. But
it is my level of recovery and healing that influences my work
the most and that comes from the love and support that I have
always had from my mum. Most people would agree that
enduring this kind of abuse is the most horrific thing that any
child should have to experience and of course they are right.
But for someone to discover that their child has been sexually
abused is every mother’s nightmare, and I can never imagine
how painful that is for her. My mum has and continues to be
by my side on my life journey and without her I would not
have made it this far. My book is dedicated to her as a small
token of my gratitude.

I am living proof of the truly amazing work they do in White Oaks. I was 42 years old when I went into rehab and up to that point in my life, I had not known real peace. As a result of childhood sexual abuse, I was in constant physical unease and psychological pain. I now celebrate each day of my life feeling the love and support of my family and friends, free from the chains of the trauma and addiction that was ruling my life. I am of course, only one of many who have entirely changed their lives as a result of the fabulous work they do there. My ability to go forward with my book and my work is a constant testimony to the level of care and professionalism of the counsellors and other staff there. But there is something more about White Oaks that makes it so successful and that is the tangible sense of spirituality within its walls. My dear friend Mae used to say that she “loved the walls of the place”. Everyone of us who have been fortunate enough to experience the uniqueness of this very
special place agrees with her

“Joining me this morning is Arylene Murphy to share her extraordinary life story. This is a story of tragedy, abuse, pain and addiction but most importantly hope and love OceanFM Ireland · Up and Running…”