Kelly,

Thank you so much for your physical, mental, and emotional courage. I’m sad that your story and stories like it have proliferated over the years. As a 67-year-old man, I ashamedly admit that I did not have the courage as a young boy when something similar, though not as severe, happened to me when I was playing Sandlot baseball.

I wish we were the only ones but I am also sad to know that isn’t true. I never played professionally but carried my trauma’s emotional pain and insecurity all through high school and college. In fact, I didn’t come to terms with its effect and impact on my life until about 6 years ago.

I admire and respect how you have conducted yourself to get to the stage in your life where you can not only play the game you love at the highest level, but I judge by reading your words here that you are also able to look in the mirror with love and respect for yourself.

You paid a heavy price for that ability, but you did it! Thank you for being who you are and for continuing to be an example and a resource to other youngsters, both male and female.