Saprea Partnership
Background and Press Release
When Paperdolls first came out, Carol and I were both stunned at the response. One of the first news reports on it was ABC4 news, Randall Carlisle and Kimberly Perkins, lead the evening news stating: “Shockwaves are going through the Salt Lake Valley as a new book is released…..”
There were numerous reactions to the publishing of Paperdolls. One of the benefits was that we were able to take the profits of the book and help other survivors. The Scott’s formed a non-profit, and we were able to assist hundreds of survivors financially. Frequently that support involved paying for their professional therapy. I received routine reports about the support, not just emotional, but the financial support we were able to provide.
On Carol’s deathbed, I promised her that I would re-release Paperdolls, and continue the work of helping survivors.
I began the due diligence about setting up a non-profit, forming a board, and then, getting therapists involved so we could qualify eligible survivors. During my cancer treatments, my nephew, Burton1 told me about a guy in his ward who worked for Saprea. With caution, I met with Saprea, several times. I wanted to ensure they weren’t some hokey group who forces survivors to do ludicrous things in the name of recovering.2
Saprea is legit. They help survivors by providing workshops, webinars and retreats. They never force survivors to do anything demeaning or abusive. Saprea isn’t naïve about the challenges of prevention and assistance required.3 Saprea doesn’t spout out outlandish, too good to be true results. Their work and efforts are authentic with measured success:
“On average, retreat participants experience a 45% improvement of life satisfaction, a 37% reduction of PTSD symptoms, and a 19% higher efficacy to cope with their traumatic experience.”4
Saprea is already established, with their board, therapists, community outreach, and retreats through-out the country. Saprea is positioned to continue the important work of education, prevention, and healing across the world.
To honor my co-author’s wishes and continue the fight against the ongoing battle against child abuse, I decided to partner with Saprea. We are going to donate 30% of the proceeds of the sale of Paperdolls & Cowboy Boots to Saprea, to assist with their advocacy, education, retreats, and work for survivors.
Here is Saprea’s Press Release and a link to KUTV2’s brief story about our partnership.
I have heard of some extremely questionable “techniques” that are harmful and abusive to survivors. Be extremely leery of any treatment that advocates abuse, bullying, physical restraint, etc.
I was naïve when Paperdolls was first released. I thought everyone would be relieved to have the shackles of shame and pain removed and joyously dance in the light. Three decades later, I’ve learned. This is an extremely complex and painful issue in our society. Healing is possible, but it isn’t simple or easy.