S, a survivor of more than 20 years’ abuse, has shown immense courage in stepping forward. He is telling the story of his terrifying kidnapping at the hands of his step-mother, Kimberly Sullivan. By the time S was 11, she had been removed from school in fourth grade. For the next 21 years he was confined in his bedroom and deprived of medical and dental treatment care until he was eventually released at age 32.
The nightmare started when S was abruptly removed from school. From this unilateral decision, Carr was cut off from the outside world. Through it all, he experienced years of loneliness and abandonment, sleeping outside in brutal temperatures. When first responders eventually located S, he was in a “severely emaciated state,” with matted hair and rotting teeth.
The Escape Plan
In a last-ditch attempt at liberation, S snatched a lighter, hand sanitizer, and sheets of paper. He next lit an inferno in his second-floor bedroom. He took this dangerous decision hoping to receive assistance.
“I am speaking out today to begin the process of reclaiming my life and to have my say in how my story is told,” – S
That mighty act of valor was the only thing that enabled firefighters to save him from his bedroom. For the moment it became a homecoming in reverse — ending his captivity as an elephant performer, starting his journey towards recovery in a rehab facility.
Life After Captivity
Since S was rescued, he has taken huge leaps towards overcoming his issues and becoming healthy again. His family is deeply grateful that he is now getting the medical and dental care that he avoided for years at great cost. Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury are running their own GoFundMe campaign. This campaign will pay for his legal fees and re-establish a home as he begins to rebuild his life on the outside.
His words and the message behind them are the result of his desire to own his story, an important first step in his own recovery.
“Please call me ‘S.’ This is not the name given to me by my parents when I was born… I will use that name as I reclaim control over my life and my future,” – S
S’s resilience has become a beacon of hope and strength to many in the community. His advocate, David Gaurino of Survivors Say, is continuing to fight for him on his behalf as he walks this uncertain new path. The support from local organizations and community members demonstrates a collective commitment to helping survivors heal from their traumatic experiences.
Support From the Community
S’s story serves as a rousing reminder of how important communities are. Activism, awareness, and advocacy can help end communities of abuse and captivity. And so he begins this journey toward recovery. He is an inspiration and a true representation of the amazing things the human spirit can accomplish.
S’s story sheds light on the critical importance of community support and awareness regarding issues of abuse and captivity. As he embarks on this journey toward recovery, he stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
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