Survivor's Fury: Abuser's Sentence Cut Short

Miriam endured severe physical and psychological abuse from Michael Egan, her mother's partner, from the age of nine. His cruelty included breaking her ribs, burning her with a cigarette, and forcing her to lick dog excrement. Despite being reported to social services, the family's frequent relocations allowed the abuse to continue, with Egan even taunting her with threats of death.

Egan's abuse escalated over years, causing Miriam and her brother to fear for their lives. They finally escaped with their mother in December 1993. Two decades later, Miriam reported Egan, who pleaded guilty to assault and child cruelty and received a suspended sentence. This was later increased to four years in December 2022, when Egan was 77.

However, less than two years later, Egan's sentence was shortened due to an early release program, sparking outrage and a need for Miriam to speak out. She felt this reduction sent a message that such crimes were not taken seriously, potentially endangering other victims.

Despite her past trauma, including panic disorder and PTSD, Miriam has found power in confronting her fears. She is preparing for a skydive to raise money for Women's Aid, aiming to help others who are still processing their abuse. She asserts she is no longer the frightened child and feels a sense of peace and strength, becoming a protector for her younger self.