This episode covers themes of physical and emotional abuse as well as suicide. If you need support please follow the links below.

Kerstin recounts her harrowing childhood and life experiences in East Germany. She was identified at a young age for elite sports training, which led to intense gymnastics regimens, physical and emotional abuse, and state-sponsored doping.

When she was dismissed from the sports program without warning she was left isolated and struggling with identity loss.

Her personal life deteriorated further after her father’s death, and she turned to alcohol and self-destructive behaviour.

Despite enduring severe trauma, Kerstin ultimately found healing and reconciliation with her past. She received state compensation for the doping-related damage to her health, repaired her relationship with her mother, and now shares her story to ensure the dark realities of the East German regime are not forgotten.

Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode400/

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