This is an excerpt from an article in PEOPLE magazine, where actor Jack Merrill recounts his harrowing experience of being abducted, drugged, and assaulted by notorious serial killer John Wayne Gacy. He describes how he managed to survive the terrifying ordeal, how the assault impacted his life, and how he eventually came to terms with the trauma through a process of forgiveness and self-discovery. Merrill emphasizes the universality of trauma, sharing how he chose to use his experience as a catalyst for personal growth and a platform to encourage others who have been affected by sexual abuse.