Michael is one of six brothers under eight, longing for their mother’s affection. After her repeated admittances to a psychiatric ward, the boys are shifted to Burnside Presbyterian Home for Children in western Sydney. Michael needs hugs and reassurance, but what he receives are beltings and verbal abuse.
Over the next fourteen years, Michael is shunted through one institution after another. Some are under the guise of religious banners such as the Presbyterian Church and the Salvation Army, and others are run by the State.
Physical and sexual abuse are normalised by those in authority during this shameful part of Australia’s history. Michael is vulnerable as psychological weaponry destroys many of those around him. During dark periods of his life, it seems unlikely he will survive the horror.
Despite his fragility, Michael finds something deep within himself to fight through the terror. When his time comes to leave the system, he embarks upon a new journey. Michael is a damaged soul but vows to take a step forward each day towards a better life.
Decades later, as a husband and father, he takes on each new day with determination to stay ahead of the demons. He remains a work in progress.
Michael is one of six brothers under eight, longing for their mother’s affection. After her repeated admittances to a psychiatric ward, the boys are shifted to Burnside Presbyterian Home for Children in western Sydney. Michael needs hugs and reassurance, but what he receives are beltings and verbal abuse.
Over the next fourteen years, Michael is shunted through one institution after another. Some are under the guise of religious banners such as the Presbyterian Church and the Salvation Army, and others are run by the State.
Physical and sexual abuse are normalised by those in authority during this shameful part of Australia’s history. Michael is vulnerable as psychological weaponry destroys many of those around him. During dark periods of his life, it seems unlikely he will survive the horror.
Despite his fragility, Michael finds something deep within himself to fight through the terror. When his time comes to leave the system, he embarks upon a new journey. Michael is a damaged soul but vows to take a step forward each day towards a better life.
Decades later, as a husband and father, he takes on each new day with determination to stay ahead of the demons. He remains a work in progress.