ABUSE: Confront and conquer

I want to thank Valda Renz and others who’ve spoken up about the horrific acts allegedly committed by a Hayden couple against their 7-week-old infant.

When I first read the article, I wept and wept for this infant. I was numb.

I’m no stranger to child abuse. I’m a retired teacher who taught preschool, K, first, second, third and fourth grade in public and private schools.

Years ago I rocked babies and read stories to children at Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery in Spokane. I’ve seen so much abuse over the years in my work and in life. I’ve lost people I loved to the aftermath of abuse as well.

Here’s the reality. Child abuse exists in all strata of society, from extreme poverty to great wealth, and the middle class. Why? Because we have too many adults with untreated mental health issues who dump their toxicity onto children and other adults.

For decades, child abuse was swept under the proverbial rug. It was easier for society to look away. The crime became more pervasive as we failed to deal with it. We all need to be better informed on the warning signs and red flags of abuse.

People who commit these unspeakable crimes need to be held accountable. Bottom line… There is no excuse for abuse. Period.

SARA FERRIS

Coeur d’Alene