Summary
"Damaged" by Cathy Glass is a harrowing yet ultimately hopeful account of a foster carer's experience with Jodie, an eight-year-old girl deeply scarred by severe abuse and neglect. The book delves into the challenges Cathy faces as she attempts to provide a stable and loving environment for a child who has known nothing but trauma. Jodie's disturbing behaviors, including violent outbursts, self-harm, and an inability to form attachments, test Cathy's skills and resolve as she navigates the complexities of the foster care system.
As Jodie begins to trust Cathy, she starts to disclose the horrific details of her past, revealing a history of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse at the hands of her parents and other adults. These revelations force Cathy to confront the depth of Jodie's pain and the systemic failures that allowed the abuse to continue for so long. The story explores the emotional toll on Cathy and her own family, as they struggle to balance their desire to help Jodie with the need to protect themselves.
The book further details Cathy's efforts to find Jodie appropriate educational and therapeutic support, highlighting the difficulties in accessing resources for children with complex needs. Despite setbacks and frustrations, Cathy perseveres, advocating for Jodie's well-being and fighting against a system that often seems indifferent to her plight. Ultimately, "Damaged" is a story of resilience, both Jodie's and Cathy's, as they navigate the long and difficult road toward healing.
The story follows Jodie's journey as she transitions to a therapeutic residential unit, a decision that is both heartbreaking and necessary. While Cathy grapples with feelings of failure, she recognizes that Jodie needs specialized care that she cannot provide. Even after Jodie's departure, Cathy remains committed to her well-being, maintaining contact and offering unwavering support. The book is also an incisive critique of the social services system, exposing the gaps and shortcomings that leave vulnerable children at risk. Through Cathy's firsthand account, "Damaged" sheds light on the urgent need for reform and the importance of providing comprehensive support for foster carers and the children they serve.