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Exclusive Interview with Michigan Author and Child Abuse Advocate Sandra Potter

By Donna M. Kshir

When I think of the words strong and determined, two words come to mind; Sandra Potter. For those who are not familiar with Sandra, she is the CEO and Founder of Dreamcatchers for Abused Children. In addition to her work with the worldwide non-profit 501 (c) 3 child abuse organization, Sandra is an up and rising Michigan based author.

Sandra was shocked to learn how many parents did not know the child abuse statistics, signs and symptoms or how many women didn't know how to get help or escape a bad relationship. So, she made it her mission to educate the public on these problems plaguing our nation by creating a series of books dedicated to helping domestic violence and child abuse survivors.

1.) Tell me a bit about yourself?

Potter: I am the CEO & Founder of DREAMCATCHERS FOR ABUSED CHILDREN. I am a 41-year old happily married woman with 5 beautiful children and currently reside in Northern Michigan.

2.) I understand you are very dedicated to Dreamcatchers for Abused Children. Can you tell me a bit about the organization and how you became involved?

Potter: Dreamcatchers for Abused Children is an official nonprofit 501(c)3 child abuse & neglect organization dedicated to child abuse awareness & prevention. The organization was founded in 2007 after the man who molested my own daughter was released from prison. I wanted to help educate the public on this epidemic plaguing our nation in hopes of saving another family from ever having to go through what my family went through.

3.) I understand you co-wrote three releases in hopes of educating society on child abuse and domestic violence. Can you tell me a bit about your current releases and the concept behind them?

Potter: I co-authored three books with best-selling Barnes and Noble author, Donna M. Kshir, in hopes of helping to educate the public on all aspects of abuse.

"THE CHILD ABUSE SURVIVOR PROJECT" is a collaboration of real-life child abuse stories which is intended to help the readers better understand child abuse, healing & recovery and the life-long effects it can leave on the victim.

"UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS: TIL DEATH DO US PART" is a non-fiction story which details domestic violence and the fatal injuries that can result.

"ONE STEP AHEAD OF FATE" is also a non-fiction story which depicts the life of domestic violence and how it can affect your life.

All of our books include a self-help section at the back of each book which describes signs, symptoms, reporting, intervention, resources, and getting out of abusive situations. All of our books are now available at Amazon, Borders, Barnes & Noble, Wal-Mart, Target and other independent book stores. However, "ONE STEP AHEAD OF FATE" is due to be released this winter, 2009.

4.) How did you develop the idea for the Child Abuse Survivor Project and where did you get the name?

Potter: THE CHILD ABUSE SURVIVOR PROJECT was a mutual idea between Donna M. Kshir and I to help bring survivors of child abuse together. We started with a MySpace page requesting survivors to please come forward and share their stories with us...which then turned into a collaborative book idea.

5.) What was your main reason for writing this book?

Potter: All of our books are written for the sole purpose of educating the public on domestic violence and child abuse.

6.) What do you want readers to see in your books?

Potter: Our hope is that our readers will be able to either relate to the stories or learn how to get help or educate themselves on the signs & symptoms to look for, spot, and help intervene.

7.) How young do you think children should be to learn about abuse?

Potter: As soon as a child is able to understand the meaning of "private parts", and can speak well enough to give descriptions, they are able to be taught good touch from bad touch.

8.) Are you always quick to generate ideas or do you struggle?

Potter: If the subject pertains to child abuse or neglect, I have no problem coming up with ideas, thoughts or opinions.

9.) What is the biggest challenge or struggle you have faced as a writer?

Potter: Detaching and separating my own personal & emotional feelings from my writing---especially when I am writing about domestic violence or child abuse.

10.) As a new writer trying to establish yourself, do you feel these challenges and struggles are rewarding to you and your cause?

Potter: Absolutely! Meeting Donna M. Kshir, and being given the opportunity to write educational books and co-author with her, has helped our cause tremendously!!! It is a new approach to a very old problem and we are hoping, together, to make a BIG difference.

11.) If I had to describe myself, I would say… I'm a leader not a follower. How would you best describe yourself?

Potter: I am simply a MOM ON A MISSION!

12.) What's next on your agenda?

Potter: Our organization is in the process of branching out, locating and assigning REGIONAL DIRECTORS to help promote awareness more effectively.

13.) Do you have any final thoughts to share with us?

Potter: YES.....Education & awareness is the "KEY" to prevention. Together, we all can make a difference...Learn the Facts. Child abuse is everyone's concern!

Donna M. Kshir is a strong believer of standing up and speaking out on issues she truly believes in. With her strong opinions and love of writing, she knew she had to be a writer. Donna has released five books, all have been on the bestsellers list. Contact Donna through NewsBlaze.