Testimonials – Book
- “I have known you for many years but, until I read your book, I had no idea about the details of your life growing up. I applaud you for coming forward to share your story. Your book is well written and insightful. I believe that lessons from this book will help those who have suffered small humiliations (just about everyone) to those who have gone through much deeper trauma like yourself. I am amazed at how you are able to take something positive away from every experience, no matter how traumatic it may have been. I would encourage everyone to read this book. Through your book we can all learn how important it is to be cautious in our words and deeds, to ensure that we make a positive lasting impression on everyone we meet and, most important, members of our own families and the most precious of gifts, our children.”
Suzanne Boles, writer and editor, www.writeconnection.org. Member, Professional Writers Association of Canada, and former President of PWAC.
- “I read HOPE and would highly recommend it. This is why: We all have baggage. You know what they say: “everybody has a story” well this book is about identifying what your baggage is, why you are doing what you do in specific situations whether in your marriage or love life, the way you raise your children, your performance at work or the general feeling about yourself, etc. I have read many self-help books to identify and assist me in becoming a better individual and yes they have been helpful. But with HOPE, it’s more than that. It’s hands on. It’s a working book. After each chapter, Sheila gives you her personal impression of what happened, how she got there, what she noticed and learned. Then she asks the questions you need to ask yourself about a specific abuse situation so you can get over the hurdle or life block. It is unique and sincere. She opened her life to us so we can get on with our lives. She makes you find your own solution so you can learn how to stop the ‘dance’ and become all you can be.”
Carole Alain, London, ON
- “I recently had the pleasure of meeting Sheila Stevenson and it is my hope that anyone who has been subjected to childhood abuse, or cares about someone who has lived through these devastating experiences, will connect with Sheila also. If you feel like you’ve been going through the motions of life, but not really living it, you are probably like me, stifled by fear. It dictates so much of who I am and how I deal with things, yet I’m only starting to realize it. Sheila opened a window for me and it allowed the most beautiful, joyous light to shine in. With sharing, understanding, and validation comes the need and ability to seek out a life we all deserve. I have not read Sheila’s book yet – my copy will be retrieved at her next book signing. But I can tell you for certain, that you should find the strength to come along on the journey she is offering. Read the book, meet her in person, or even take the first step into finding some peace at her upcoming workshops. I’m ready to believe in me - how about you? Sheila you are a blessing! With hope and gratitude.”
Tracy, Ontario, Canada (Note: Tracy has since read the book, and her comments stand, with permission.)
- “This is a book I couldn’t put down. Your story is very compelling and I think a lot of women who have experienced child abuse will identify with the content. There seems to be scant information available for survivors and I think your book will really help them to work through their process. Yours is really a story of hope for all of us to learn and live with grace, peace and serenity, despite many obstacles. Thank you for letting me read it.”
Kate Wiggins, Executive Director, Women’s Community House, London, ON, Canada
- “The author proved immense courage for sharing her alarming and painful childhood experiences and the many ways they impacted on her life. A profoundly simple, hopeful, and human book. Survivors of childhood abuse and those who want to understand and support them will find this book helpful.”
Alanna Hutchison RN, Psychiatric Nurse-Clinician, CPMHN-Canada Regional Mental Health Centre, London, ON, Canada
- “I read Sheila’s book that same night after purchasing. I did not put it down. I have it in my reference library now for clients and friends and have already lent it out and hope that they too can find some healing. Thank you Sheila, for this wonderful book. There are lessons in it for everyone.”
Janice A. Kirwin Lighten Up! Professional Organizer/Certified Senior Move Manager, London, Ontario
- “Your presentation to the BMW (Breakfast Meeting for Women) Group gave us detailed understanding of how your book (HOPE for Survivors of Childhood Abuse...) came about and who was instrumental in getting you started with your message of Hope. It was well received by the group with many members purchasing the book and reading it. I couldn't wait to read the book myself. After I read it I realized how important my influence is on my children and my grandchildren. I have changed some of my own ways of influencing my children, reminding them what their children will remember about the examples they are setting. I am much more aware of the influence we are to our grandchildren and try to set good examples every day. I feel so lucky to be exposed to this book of Hope while my grandchildren are young yet, and I have the opportunity to help raise them in a much more loving and understanding way. Thank you for your courage and vision of Hope. It's a book that should be read by everyone.”
Geraldine Peters, Proprietor, Jim Anderson Flowers, London, ON
- “Your book is a "hard to put down". Besides the fact that you have a true gift for writing (the word usage and the flow of the language is outstanding), I was most astounded by the incredible courage it would have taken for you to share your life in this way with the world.
People like myself, will say thank you every day for our good fortune in growing up in happiness and love while acquiring a lasting empathy and desire to be there for others. And people who have experienced abuse and neglect can know that they are not alone and see the benefits of being able to work through their pain with professionals and peers. Bravo!”
Sandra Musclow, London, ON
- “If you or someone you know and love has been affected by childhood abuse of any kind our (local independent) bookstore has copies of a powerful transformational book by a London, Ontario author by the name of Sheila M. Stevenson. I have personally read the book and I applaud her triumph over adversity. It contains lots of helpful advice and probing self-reflective questions.”
Georgette M.J. Parsons, Sarnia, ON
- “Very well done, now, you have to realize that reading is not my pastime so you kept my attention. Yes, good job… very interesting…very thought provoking.”
Bob, Ottawa, ON
Suzanne Boles, writer and editor, www.writeconnection.org. Member, Professional Writers Association of Canada, and former President of PWAC.
Carole Alain, London, ON
Tracy, Ontario, Canada (Note: Tracy has since read the book, and her comments stand, with permission.)
Kate Wiggins, Executive Director, Women’s Community House, London, ON, Canada
Alanna Hutchison RN, Psychiatric Nurse-Clinician, CPMHN-Canada Regional Mental Health Centre, London, ON, Canada
Janice A. Kirwin Lighten Up! Professional Organizer/Certified Senior Move Manager, London, Ontario
Geraldine Peters, Proprietor, Jim Anderson Flowers, London, ON
People like myself, will say thank you every day for our good fortune in growing up in happiness and love while acquiring a lasting empathy and desire to be there for others. And people who have experienced abuse and neglect can know that they are not alone and see the benefits of being able to work through their pain with professionals and peers. Bravo!”
