“Society cannot fix what it refuses to see.Even if we are all willing to recognize the fact of incest as a surprisingly frequent dysfunction, we have no understanding of the effects on its victims.Ms. Brochu’s honest reflection and insight on her road to healing in part II of her trilogy, New Beginnings, reveals issues rarely spoken about in public, and rarely addressed in nursing or medical education.The author takes us through a time of developing maturity and strength – a time during which, despite her childhood experience, she finds enough courage, trust in humanity and faith to begin on the road of freedom.She becomes her own hero, and I wanted to cheer out loud for her.In years of talking with patients, I have learned that people have unbelievable inner strengths, and Ms. Brochu shares a story here that works to empower all of us.
In addition to those whose lives have been hurt by abuse, this book of inspiration is a “must read” for health care providers and students of health care.”
Wendy S. A. Edwards, MD
Associate Chief and Clinical Director of Palliative Medicine
Saint VincentCatholicMedicalCenter
New York, New York
“As a family lawyer, this compelling biography revealed to me the heart and soul of a young woman courageously finding her voice and strength.The author is a profound example of the triumph of the human spirit.This book should be mandatory reading for all professionals working with teens and children in our court system.”
Kathryn Hens-Greco, Esq.
Pittsburgh, PA
“New Beginnings is a poignant, and accurate description of the emotional and psychological struggles most incest victims face, but doesn’t end there.Cathy takes the reader through her journey of overcoming her compelling fears, her anguish, her sadness, her shame and anger by maintaining a clear sense of purpose and optimism about how life should be.She allows herself to be open and connected to people who are capable of safe and nurturing relationships and aid in her quest for feelings of self-worth.
Not only does Cathy’s book give hope to other victims and professionals in the field, but also provides a clear message for perpetrators in identifying the issues they need to address and what questions they need to answer to help their victims.I am delighted to be able to use this book as a significant tool in my private practice.”
Cheryl Karpinski, A.C. S.W.
Syracuse, New York
“New Beginnings is more than just the title to a good book.It is a guidepost to the rest of the world as lived by Cathy Brochu.Turning page after page, the reader is witness not to a cauldron of crying and self-flagellation, but a celebration of success.Discovered in the story’s written words is a moving account of how one person overcame hurdles that would have dissuaded even the most hearty of individuals.No one would want to live through the incredibly difficult times that were visited upon Cathy at an early age.However all of us would hope that we would experience the joy, the happiness, and self-contentment that was eventually had by Cathy.It did not come easy.It came, I can only assume, as the result of the efforts os a self-directed, incredibly focused young lady.Bravo!”
Ralph A. Cognetti, Esq.
Syracuse, New York
“The author is a woman of strength and courage who has written a compelling book from first-hand experience.Her journey is truly uplifting.For anyone who works in the field, this is a must read.”
Nick Pallotta, MSW
Syracuse, New York
“New Beginnings is a compelling addition to the powerful story shared in “Lost Innocence.”Cathy has a unique ability to make the reader feel as if s/he is experiencing the events of Cathy’s life along with her.In this book, Cathy reminds all of us of the difference unconditional love can make in the lives of those around us.I am grateful to Cathy for her courage and her vision and look forward eagerly to the final installment of the trilogy.”
Randi Bregman
Executive Director
Vera House, Inc.
Syracuse, New York
“The voice of a resilient survivor jumps off the pages of New Beginnings: In Search of Self and invites the reader to embark on the painful journey from trauma to recovery.In the sequel to Lost Innocence the child’s voice grows from adolescence to adulthood and her strength is resounding.Through her struggles, the author evolves from victim to victim advocate and leaves a legacy of hope and healing for all children who have been abused.”
Jennifer Cornish Genovese, ACSW, CSW
Psychotherapist, specializing in the treatment of traumatized children
Syracuse, New York
“In New Beginnings, we are invited into a journey of healing that makes us want to turn the page – will the author be able to overcome the confusion and deep wounds that are the legacy of her incestuous family history?Will she be able to open her heart and let love in?Will she find her path in this world?We want to know the answers to these questions and we are not disappointed.The accounts of her emotional, psychological and spiritual healing and the “angels” who come along to help her are uplifting.Anyone reading this book will be inspired to move forward through areas of their own wounded-ness and into their own new beginnings.”
Cherie Ackerson, MS, LMT
Body-centered psychotherapist and body worker
Syracuse, New York
“This book examines the next chapter in the life of Cathy Brochu.You need not have experienced her first book Lost Innocence to understand New Beginnings.
This is outstanding reading and easy to understand – I recommend it to any person who has gone through a purgatory like that experienced by Cathy Brochu.Ms. Brochu shares information that is intimate and wise.If nothing else, the reader will see that greatness and success can come from ashes if a person has the will to persevere.
Teachers, counselors, therapist, judges, lawyers and anyone who has an interest in family law will find Brochu’s book invaluable in their work.The professionals who read this book will be better able to help their clients cope and succeed.”
Karen J. Doctor, M.A., M.S.
Attorney & Counselor at Law
Syracuse, New York
“What an amazing and incredible journey Cathy Brochu has taken and has been able to share with us.What a profound impact she has made on those who have read her works as well as on those she has served as a professional in out community.In New Beginnings Cathy shows that there is hope for victims, survivors and for those who work with many who suffer from abuse.Driven by faith and a will to move on Cathy finally feels the self-worth and peace that she deserves.She clearly shows that if one has faith, one can find love, the kind of love that does not hurt.”
Cheryl Kadlubowski, B.A.
Community Service Provider
Syracuse, New York
“Heart-warming, painful, an exceptional journey by an exceptional woman.Her heartfelt journey gives hope and inspiration for others.
A truly intimate and personal means of sharing.A communication of the wide spectrum of emotions that are normal for the recovery process.
This book is truly a support and encouragement to those who have experienced abuse and are ready to put their shoes on and walk through the dark to the light to a new beginning.”
Joan Marie Myers, CSW-R, ACSW
Child and Adolescent Therapist
Syracuse, New York
“In New Beginnings, Cathy Brochu has chronicled a painful story of childhood sexual abuse that seems to have become much too familiar in recent years.Ms. Brochu’s journey is often sad and depressing, but ultimately one of hope for the future – hers and ours.Her resilience and will to make a satisfying place for herself in the world is admirable, if not heroic.This is a book that should be read to understand how child sexual abuse happens and, just as importantly, how to stop it from happening.”
