„You are not alone“ is an information page from Schicksal und Herausforderung e.V. The aim is to provide a clear list of therapy, information and support services. Also beyond the borders of our German projects. For this reason, we have decided to offer this project in several languages and also to condense general information on the subject, which is available in great detail on SuH, to the essentials and make it accessible in easy language.
I am Markus and a team member of Schicksal und Herausforderung e.V.. I remember very well how difficult it was for me as a teenager and young adult. In my time, there were almost no offers of help and the reports on television plunged me into a major crisis. I didn't want to be ‘that guy’ and repressed my sexual preference. I got worse and worse over time. I struggled through my studies and rejected myself. In 2021, I found SuH and started to explore the topic. It was liberating to be able to talk about my problems and feelings with someone for the first time in my life. I accepted myself. Today, my sexual preference is an integral part of me and that's a good thing.
If you suppress your worries and fears, they become stronger. Today, I know that it doesn't matter what I think or feel. What matters is how I behave!
I started moderating our forum Gemeinsam statt allein. Today I am an international activist of SuH and in our voluntary counselling I have over time put my focus on sexualized violence. I have read a lot on this topic and have dealt with it intensively as part of coming to terms with my past. As a survivor of sexual violence and a pedophile, I know how difficult this turmoil can be. I want to inspire people today and advocate for a society in which the answers to problems do not consist of repressing them. Hate does not create empowerment, it divides and leaves people behind.
A few words about SuH and my supporters.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my team at Schicksal und Herausforderung e.V. for their great support. Many thanks to Mano, without whom I would not be an activist today. Many thanks to Dune, who also accompanies me as a companion and the tidy soul of the GSA forum. Many thanks to Georg, who makes it all possible and a big thank you to Anton, who supports us technically.
The following people have contributed to You are not alone with ideas, design and support. Many thanks for your help!
- Anton S — technical administrator of SuH
- Bly — former director of VirPed
- Brandon — administrator of MAP support club
- Charlie — Co-Director of VirPed
- David - former activist and ‘SuH family member’
- Maverick — graphic designer and artist
- Sammy Jenkis — Co-Director of VirPed