Resources for sexual abuse victims from R.A. Dickey
In the world of baseball, it was the knuckleball pitch that saved R.A. Dickey's career, but as the Toronto Blue Jays' pitcher told Lesley Stahl on Sunday night, it wasn't the knuckleball alone that turned the tide.
Rather, Dickey says, what changed his life was coming to terms with the sexual abuse he suffered as a child, and also with the resulting depression he endured as an adult. Only through a good therapist and honesty with his wife, Dickey says, was he able to rescue both his career and his marriage.
Many viewers have responded sympathetically to Dickey's story -- and we thank you for those thoughtful comments -- and we've noticed that some viewers are also sharing their own tough stories of abuse.
In light of that, we asked Dickey to tell us about some resources that he thinks can be helpful for people struggling with sexual abuse and its aftermath. Please note that people suffering from severe symptoms should seek immediate help through trusted doctors and local networks. And those feeling suicidal, should contact their local hotline or dial 911.
Resources that Dickey would recommend for people who aren't in an urgent condition include:
1in6
From the organization's website: "The mission of 1in6 is to help men who have had unwanted or abusive sexual experiences in childhood live healthier, happier lives. Our mission also includes serving family members, friends, and partners by providing information and support resources on the web and in the community."
RAINN
From the organization's website: "RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. . . . RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice."
To learn more about Dickey's personal story, you can watch Lesley Stahl's piece online:"The Knuckleballer,"as well as our Overtime piece, "R.A. Dickey and the moment he hit rock bottom."
Additionally, Dickey has written a book about his life that goes into greater detail about his treatment and recovery: "Wherever I Wind Up: My Quest for Truth, Authenticity and the Perfect Knuckleball," and he has written a young reader's book: "Throwing Strikes: My Quest for Truth and the Perfect Knuckleball."
Dickey's work to help victims of sexual abuse includes a charity in India that seeks to help girls and young women who have been trafficked in the sex trade. That organization is called Bombay Teen Challenge.