Fourteen year old Dionne was being sexually abused by her mother's boyfriend. But she didn't realize what was happening to her was wrong until the boyfriend threatened to torture her beloved pets if she told anyone "their secret."

Dionne was able to reach out to a school counsellor, who in turn referred her to Delisle's Long-Term Residential Program. At that time, Dionne was skipping school. She was afraid to be alone, afraid of men, and wore far too many layers of clothes. As staff got to know Dionne, they realized she was cutting herself, and spotted signs of depression and anxiety, as well as the effects of the abuse on her self-esteem and trust.

Delisle's consulting psychiatrist confirmed the staff's suspicions and began treatment for depression. At the same time, residence staff gradually began to build a trusting relationship with Dionne. They helped her create a safety plan if she felt suicidal, and taught her ways to cope with sadness. They also took a firm line against self-harm, so Dionne would know they put her safety first.  The staff also worked with Dionne's mother, who had not known whether to believe her daughter or her boyfriend.

Gradually, Dionne understood that the abuse was not her fault. She re-engaged with school. Self-harm was dramatically reduced. And she slowly learned to trust adults again.

That was ten years ago. Today, Dionne manages her own business caring for animals. And every year, she returns to Delisle to celebrate her good life.