Joanna's Story

This story was submitted by one of our Counsellors on making a request for Joanna's Suitcase of Hope. Names have been changed to protect identity.

Joanna is seven years old and has been receiving counselling through Anglicare. Joanna had been sexually abused by her stepfather for many years and has experienced severe trauma during her short life.

This once bubbly and bright child has become socially isolated, anxious and feels ‘different’ to all the other kids her age.

Our counsellor felt a Suitcase of Hope would be wonderful for Joanna. In addition to an art journal, water colour pencils, pastel crayons, dream catcher, Guatemalan worry doll and a soft toy, the counsellor recognised Joanna’s love of art, cooking and camping and so applied for a membership to Girl Guides Australia.

Girl Guides would give Joanna the opportunity to do all the things she loves in a female only environment where she can discover her strengths as she develops into a young woman. Being amongst her peers will also give Joanna a chance to build healthy and positive relationships and do the things that ‘normal’ children do.