You were sexually abused over a long period of time by a team doctor while in training.

[milestogo]

Do you think you would be strong enough to go on to compete and win at the Olympic level?

7 votes, 0 passes | Time left: Unlimited
	Maybe
	0 (0%)
	Doubtful
	0 (0%)
	No
	1 (14%)
	No way
	1 (14%)
	Only a truly exceptional human being could do that, and not me.
	5 (71%)
	OTHER
	0 (0%)
	0 DU members did not wish to select any of the options provided.
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[BlueTsunami2018]

1. Maybe.

If I was as driven, talented and focused as someone at that level, it’s possible. Apparently, this kind of thing has gone on for a long time in a lot of sports and a lot of people have overcome it. But it absolutely has broken a lot more.

It’s hard to say without actually being in that position.

[rickyhall]

2. I totally get the attention sexual abuse gets. Nor could imagine the horrors.

But rarely is anything said about the physical and psychological abuse of children. Some of my earliest memories are my father beating my ass with a belt, sometimes with my pants down, bare assed. When I turned 12 he started with fists. He broke my nose three times. I went to school with bandages on my face only to hear "I'm sorry" from my teachers. No matter how hard I tried I could do nothing right. All my friends were "hudlems". It took me decades to get enough self esteem to do things without endless procrastination or help from other to meet people and get things done. I still have trouble with my sudden explosive anger. I haven't seen him since Mom died in '99. Last year the old man died. I could care less. He was a monster to me.

Like I say, I do not want to appear to denigrate those who have been sexually abused, but other kinds childhood abuse can be damaging, too.

[msongs]

3. and your future congressman knew and did nothing to help you.... nt

[BlueLucy]

5. Maybe

Lady Gaga was raped when she was a teen and has gone on to achieve greatness. Some people use their talent to escape. That doesn't mean the pain doesn't come out in other ways.

[demmiblue]

6. The other women who survived his abuse are exceptional, as well. All survivors are. n/t