TW: Child sexual assault, suicide, gender dysphoria.

 

Today I’m going to be chatting with a very nice man who isn’t really called Rob. I just want to warn you that in this episode we’re going to talk about child sexual assault, gender dysphoria, and suicidal thoughts. If you’re not feeling up to it today, just give it a miss. 

 

Rob got in touch with me last year to tell me that listening to my audiobook with his 13 year old son helped them both deal with the trauma of his son’s sexual assault by an older boy three years ago. 

 

And while he does share some extremely painful experiences with me, what I’m struck by more than anything is not only the bright shining unconditional love  and support that Rob shows his son, but how clearly and fearlessly they both communicate with each other about their feelings and their needs, and not just about this frightening and traumatic event.

 

I’ve followed Ofcom rules and disguised Rob’s voice.