A South African nurse living in the UK has written a book about his abuse as a child and wants schools and libraries to make it available to children.
Georgie Calverley says if his life story can make just one child’s life better, he would be happy.
The book, called A Coloured in Full Flight, speaks about his childhood of sexual abuse, and being bullied simply for being gay.
The 54-year-old says it took him 16 years to write his book.
“In the book I speak about abuse and being bullied at school for being different or gay.
“Being isolated and alone, I found ways to cope and face every day, knowing everyone was out to make my life miserable and unhappy.
“I am looking to get the story and book into schools and libraries so kids, parents and teachers may learn from my tale,” says Georgie.
“I was abused by an older cousin from age six to eight while living in Durban.
“I had no idea why he chose me and when things felt wrong, there was no turning back the clock.
“The damage was already done and when we moved to East London, I fell under the spell of another older boy. Everyone treated me like a girl and I was usually someone’s girlfriend when games were played.”
Georgie says he was physically bullied but the words hurt just as much.
“Once I got older, they left me alone, choosing to shout words in my direction.
“I got good grades but was always brought down to earth for being a sissy or moffie.”
He adds: “Every kid needs good core values of self-esteem, confidence and self-worth to cope in society.
“Teachers acting as surrogate parents play a massive part in enhancing these traits in their charges, bullied, gay or otherwise.
“Bullying is corrosive, ugly and often leads to mental, social or psychological issues or problems.”
Coloured in Full Flight is available to purchase via order on [email protected].