EXTRAORDINARY BOOK RELEASED IN TIME FOR R U OK? DAY SHEDS A PERSPECTIVE ON MALE VICTIMS OF CHILDHOOD DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND DRAMATIC LIFE-THREATENING HEALTH STRUGGLES

'Embracing my scars' is the story of Jerry Morrissey who has overcome childhood abuse, a rare life-threatening arteriovenous malformation, multiple strokes, several surgeries, and the struggle with suicidal thoughts. He has supported his wife of 30-years, through numerous rounds of infertility treatment and Multiple Sclerosis

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, 19 AUGUST 2024: The extraordinary autobiography of Jerry Morrissey's journey of hope in the face of adversity, 'Embracing my scars' has been released today ahead of R U OK? Day to help other male victims of childhood domestic violence and anyone who has suffered medical procedures and life-threatening health battles. 

Now aged 60, Jerry Morrissey is sharing his entire personal story to the world for the first time in the hope it will help others, including male survivors of childhood abuse, male partners of women who have suffered multiple miscarriages and endless rounds of unsuccessful fertility treatments, and anyone who has/is suffering from an arteriovenous malformation, stroke, undergoing surgery or complex health issues. The book provides profound insight into Jerry's journey as he grappled with suicidal thoughts born from the immense pain and psychological suffering he endured.

Speaking at the launch of the book from his home in Sunbury in suburban Melbourne, Jerry hopes on this R U OK? Day, "that if sharing my story can save even one person from taking their own life or guide them from the depths of despair to a place where they can embrace the fullness of life then reliving the trauma to write it has been worthwhile. I encourage everyone to ask their children, spouse, family, friends, and colleagues this if they are okay. The power of knowing someone cares enough to ask, is important and often underappreciated," he says.

Jerry's childhood in Scotland was marred by the trauma of domestic violence at the hands of his violent father, Big Jerry, and the beatings his mother absorbed to protect her children. The story tells of how when Jerry's mother finally escaped Big Jerry and fled with Jerry and his sister to their grandmother's home, Jerry again witnessed physical abuse and the regular battering that his grandmother was enduring at the hands of her partner. 

In Jerry's teenage years, he developed a rare arteriovenous malformation on his face that also caused dramatic and life-threatening bleeds. Because of the disfigurement to his face and the arduous process to save Jerry's life, he believed he would never find love.

Jerry endured a series of extensive surgeries, including one that was likened to a 'post-mortem'. One of the surgeons described the operation as 'killing Jerry' as his heart and lungs were to be put on a by-pass machine while the operation to his face took place. 

Although he survived the life-threatening condition, he emerged from surgery blind, unable to drink, eat, speak, and paralysed on his right side, trapped in his own body with only his sense of smell and hearing intact. At the age of 25, Jerry had to learn how to function all over again. 

In an incredible turn of fate, Jerry found love right there in the hospital in the form of Pat, the nurse who cared for him throughout that time. Pat and Jerry recently celebrated 30 years together and during their relationship the couple faced even more adversity, with Pat suffering multiple miscarriages and several rounds of infertility treatment. Pat was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2007. 

During their marriage the couple have lived in Scotland and England, before relocating to Australia in 2019 as Jerry's skills in engineering were highly sought after here for various complex major transport projects. 

Commenting on the launch of the book, Pat Morrissey, says, "for many years I encouraged Jerry to write his and our story to help others. My husband is a beacon of hope and continuous support and inspiration. He has wrestled with profound physical and mental pain and ultimately found solace and acceptance in his own skin."

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To obtain a copy of 'Embracing my scars'

To order a copy of the book, please visit: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/176363910X

About Jerry Morrissey

Jerry has an inspiring journey marked by resilience and accomplishment. Overcoming life's challenges, he managed to obtain four degrees: a Bachelor's Degree in Nuclear Engineering and Law, and two Masters Degrees in Project Management, Construction Law and Arbitration. With over 30 years of experience, Jerry has managed multi-billion-dollar projects globally, and has excelled in infrastructure, energy, and transport projects.

Jerry's determination is evident not just in his professional life but also in his personal wellness journey. Recovering from strokes, he maintains a rigorous daily routine, starting with early morning gym sessions and actively participating in running events. Jerry and Pat travelled around Australia for a year in a campervan before relocating here permanently. Together they embrace a healthy lifestyle together, enjoying regular gym workouts and yoga classes.

To find out more, please visit: http://jerrymorrissey.online/

Images of Jerry Morrissey

To access a gallery of images of Jerry throughout his life, please visit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1s_07p10DWXzk-Kpwp04J_yNlGEVvw0-w?usp=sharing

Media Enquiries

To arrange an interview with Jerry Morrissey, please contact Kathryn Goater on 0414 726 958 or kathryn@media-wize.com