When I first wrote about Brett Reider here I had just seen the documentary BRETT KILLED MOM: A SISTER’S DIARY on HBO and I wanted to write about my feelings and also to encourage everyone to watch what I thought was a very important film. I wasn’t even thinking that other people, who were, like me, wondering what had happened to Brett, would be searching the internet and coming to my site for answers. I posted what I had been able to find out here. I was saddened by the site that stated that Brett had committed suicide. I wanted a happy ending for this young man. As much as I wanted to know the truth I never imagined that I would receive an email from Brett’s wife Sara. She had heard about my site from a friend and wrote to let me know that not only is Brett alive, he is married with two beautiful boys and another baby on the way.
I emailed her back expressing my gratitude for her taking the time to not only contact me, but for providing photos so that I could see for myself that Brett now has a beautiful wife and two darling little boys. I also asked her if she would mind if I wrote a little note on my site stating that Brett was OK. I promised not to use any of the photos and to respect their privacy as it was clear that they have moved on. To my surprise she kindly gave me permission to not only pass on the information but to post the photos as well.
In Sara’s own words (I will place them in italics to make it easier for you, the reader, to differentiate between her words and my own),
“Brett and I just celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary. He turned
30 this year. I am 37. We have two boys - Gavin (3) and Garrett (1). We
also have another (of unknown sex) on the way. Our oldest, Gavin was
diagnosed with Autism at 13 months old - so our lives revolve around
that. Parenting an autistic child is very challenging. Brett is a
wonderful father and Gavin has come along way because of all of the
time and attention Brett is able to give him.”
“Brett just lives a normal life. We moved from Nebraska to the coast of
North Carolina and he enjoys his anonymity. The documentary was filmed
when Brett was 16 years old - and they still air it now and again. We
did ask for them to put a written update at the end - but they never
responded and Brett has no rights or control over the program.”
“…we have received thousands of emails, letters and phone calls over the years
with horrific stories of abuse. Some similar to Brett’s - some much
worse. It really gets to be too much sometimes…because it is so sad
how common it is and can be very depressing. Brett also couldn’t
possibly respond to them all - which is why he doesn’t.”
“We are grateful to all of the people who have reached out to Brett over
the years - many of whom wrote the parole board and were critical to
his early release. We would like everyone to know this. We would also like for people to know that our focus now is on our son and advocating for Autism awareness. It truly
consumes our life.”
“We really aren’t hiding – we have just moved on and have so many other things to deal with now.
Hopefully, people searching from here on out will find your site and be
able to get the information they are seeking.”
Sara also let me know that Brett’s sister, “Alissa, is married and also has two boys aged 2 and 4″.
Sara also closed her email with a link to a website dedicated to autism http://www.generationrescue.org/
I myself have a nephew with autism and I have seen first hand the time and effort my sister and brother in law have put into making sure that their son lives the best life possible.
For me, this whole experience has been a lesson in hope and the ability of a person to not only survive horrifying abuse suffered at the hands of the ones who should ultimately protect us, our parents, but to rise above the idea that the cycle of abuse can’t be broken by going on to become wonderful spouses and parents.
My sincerest thanks to the Reider family for not only sharing this information and these photos with me, but also for allowing me to share them with the thousands of people who have been searching the internet to find out what happened to Brett Reider after his release from prison.
For those of you who have commented or emailed me with your stories of abuse please know that you are not alone. So many of us unfortunately share this common bond. If you are currently in an abusive situation don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are out of the abusive situation but still finding it difficult to deal with the pain and/or the low self esteem that often follows there is help out there for you too. So many suffer in silence.
11/21/07 Edited to add that Brett’s wife Sara saw that people were curious about Brett’s current occupation, and she wrote me to say “Brett is a construction foreman who works on multi-million dollar projects.”
Comment by Pamela
September 15, 2007 @ 11:46 pm
I hope he is okay. I think it is a shame how everything played out for everyone. I can only wish him the best in life.
Comment by Tammy
September 17, 2007 @ 6:25 pm
I agree with you Pamela. I hope he is alive and well.
Thank you for your comment.
Pingback by Lived To Tell » How Can You Measure It Doctor?
September 24, 2007 @ 2:04 pm
[…] For those searching for Brett Reider information, I wrote another entry here. […]
Comment by staci cummings
October 3, 2007 @ 6:22 am
I saw the documentary on Brett that his sister made. I was saddened to hear that he may have committed suicide. I hope to God that is not true. If it is then his mother killed him, not the other way around. I hope HBO does a follow up. And the justice system stinks since that poor kid served 11 years as an adult. he should not have been convicted at all.
Comment by Tim
October 3, 2007 @ 10:26 pm
NO, NO … that site just has a misprint. I’m SURE they meant to write HOMICIDE and some idiot typed in SUICIDE by mistake. Since the it is a synopsis of the HBO docu., and he did not commit suicide in the doc., this is obviously a simple (but moronic) typo.
Best,
Tim
Comment by Tim
October 3, 2007 @ 10:28 pm
Oh, and totally agree — the justice system in this country it totally SCREWED-UP. The judge and the jurors should be ashamed of themselves — I wish upon them the living hell that was his for 15 years (time served!), and then a follow-up stay at the hotel-hell known as prison. Just a month or two for them, so the can see how much that was helping society keeping him in there. What a crock!
Comment by Priscilla
October 6, 2007 @ 9:47 am
I, too, hope it is not true - that Brett Reider committed suicide. I had read somewhere else on the net that he had gotten married. I hope he is OK, raising a family and having a good life. Nobody deserves to grow up with that kind of abuse and craziness. He is lucky he had Alissa for a sister; someone who told his story, loved him unconditionally and gave him absolution. She is something, huh? I hope she is doing well also. I’m trying really hard not to judge the father, but it’s not easy to cut him any slack for letting that kind of abuse go on for so long. It’s a heartbreaking story. Pretty phenomenal that this happens in priviledged, educated, affluent middle America, but it does.
Comment by Heather
October 7, 2007 @ 5:32 am
I just wanted to let you all know that Brett is alive and well and doing great. I am friends of his wife and they have two very handsome sons and Brett is a great and loving and calm dad.
There will not be a follow up, he is NOT interested in dragging this all up again. I had asked about it myself.
Comment by Shiela
October 7, 2007 @ 8:53 am
I cannot believe that the judge nor the jurors did not consider the 911 call for help during the trial. I hope that the cops who did the 911 investigation realized that they should be fired for their lack of judgment. And his so called friend who testified against him gets his karma. The best to Brett. Hope you will be able to forgive yourself.
Comment by Shelley
October 7, 2007 @ 9:16 am
I have watched that show about a hundred times and again this morning at 6:30. (I can’t sleep.) I understand his reasons for not wanting to drag it up again, the fact that he has a family and children, in a way I do not blame him. However, think of all of those children that go to bed at night and wonder if there really is life after the terror and abuse that they suffer at the hands of someone they love, someone that is supposed to love and protect them from the evil and pain in the world and be there no matter what. I think that it would be beneficial to him and others, if he had a website in which others could come and talk to him when they feel like they are the only ones to go through something like this.
I am a 26 year old survivor of an alcoholic and abusive father, a manic depressive mother (who couldn’t help herself so she had no way to help her children), and a sexually abusive brother. I endured years of this and cannot tell you how humiliated and ashamed I was. I didn’t date or anything in high school because I didn’t think that anyone would want me, or that they would think that I was disgusting and that I let it happen. After I met my husband and left home at the age of 18, I had no idea that it was happening to my sister and it got worse. I can never forgive myself for that. I would have found it incredibly helpful to have someone to talk to in all of the shit that followed in my life. I just think that it is something that should be given some serious thought. I know that I am not the only one and neither are you.
Comment by Tammy
October 7, 2007 @ 1:05 pm
I am pleased that people have taken the time to comment on this subject. The general consensus seems to be that we wish him well and we were hoping to find out that he was alive and happy somewhere. If Heather’s comment is correct (and I so want to believe it) I feel much better knowing that he is married and enjoying his children.
A couple of people mention the flaws in the judicial system in this case. I agree wholeheartedly that the sentence handed down was wrong.
I do not feel that Brett should have to come forward and speak publicly about this. I can understand him wanting to move on with his life.
Like you Shelley, I was a victim of horrific abuse as a child. I deal with it in my own ways. I have made a choice to speak about it on a public journal, but that choice isn’t right for everyone.
I do wish however, that HBO would add a little message at the end of the documentary stating that Brett is out of prison, alive and well.
People really felt a connection to him after watching that documentary and I know myself I so badly wanted to hear that he was somewhere living his life as happily as he can.
Tim, I agree with you about the typo on that site. I am going to see if I can contact them and get them to fix it.
Thanks again to everyone.
Remember to not be afraid to ask for help if you are in an abusive situation. Go to as many people as you have to. And for those of us who are struggling to move on…I understand completely.
Tammy
Comment by Terry
October 10, 2007 @ 8:36 pm
I don’t blame Brett for wanting to live a quiet family life. God knows he’s earned it going through the hell he went through. I agree with Shelley that were he to come forward, it would certainly help people out in similar situations, but I don’t think that he’s morally obligated to do so. I absolutely respect his wishes and wish he and his family the very best.
Comment by Miranda
October 10, 2007 @ 8:58 pm
I just got done watching the Brett Reider story…Very moving…I hope he is doing well, I’m saddened that he was not understood by the system. God bless to Alissa for being there for her brother and to Brett for speaking out against a true monster. I have tremendous respect for a man who will shelter his family.
Comment by Terri
October 11, 2007 @ 7:10 am
I understand what he felt the helpless and hopeless feeling. Its one thing when you have a parent who is supposed to love and nurture you beating you up physically as well as emotionally, And all the time they are beating on you , you feel like well I can’t fight back I can’t hurt my mom I love her but then at some point it is like if I don’t I may not survive this and why doesn’t she love me enough to know how badly she is hurting me? But when all those horrible things get reinforced by the other parent either not protecting you or taking an active part in destroying your self esteem and you cry out for help by calling 911 or as in my case going to a shelter for teens and asking for help. All that happened in my case was they of course called my parents who came and did an excellent job of denial then of course I got beat up for the shame and embarrassment I had put them through and that my father had to take a day off of work! I hope Brett is living anonomously happy and at peace. My life is better my experience with toxic parents led me to making some very poor choices in my quest for love as I never really had a sense of what that was really supposed to feel like. Good luck to you Brett best wishes for a peaceful happy life.
Comment by CW
October 11, 2007 @ 9:27 am
Does anyone know where to find a copy of this documentary? I saw it for the first time last night. I’d like to watch it again and show it to some others in my life (HBO doesn’t look like they’re running it again anytime soon). Incredibly moving.
Comment by Sharon
October 18, 2007 @ 9:51 pm
I just watched the documentary about Brett Reider. As a mother, I feel only empathy for Brett and his sister. But, I am totally disgusted by their so called “father”.
When his daughter asked why he never protected them, he responded that he would have lost everything, and their mother would have left him. BIG DEAL!! If my spouse, or anyone else, had been abusing my kids, I would have given my life to protect them. I hope Brett and his sister can put everything behind them and live wonderful lives.
Comment by tiffany
October 18, 2007 @ 10:16 pm
I just watched the Brett Reider story and the story of the sister,I was very suprised to see the story of my life on TV. No my mother is stil alive but the rest of the story seemed to come out of the house I grew up in.I do not know what happen to Brett but i hope he is well and I hope he knows that God did forgive him . Alissa I hope you know that you are not alone in the guilt I know that you feel, I moved out when I was 17 and lift my little brother in a home where both parents were abusive to him and there is not a day that goes by that I do not regret doing more to help him…. Brett I hope you are well and God has forgiven you and I hope you have forgiven yourself …..
Comment by Bobby
October 19, 2007 @ 12:40 am
I hopped right on the internet after watching this on HBO to find out what has happened since. The first thing that I found out was that he only served 6 years in prison and that made me happy for him. The second thing I found out was that he may have commited suicide. I really hope that this is not the case. Hopefully I find out somewhere how he is and how he is doing. If anyone knows anything… that wouldbe great.
Comment by Roxanne
October 19, 2007 @ 12:58 am
As I watched Brett & Alissa’s documentary for the first time tonight, I got on the internet and searched for him. I have never looked up any other story I’ve seen on tv. I can honestly say that I am deeply moved, and will never forget this story. I commend Alissa for taking the time & initiative and finding the love and understanding to make the documentary and just be the strong, wonderful, supportive sister she’s been. Within the first couple of comments, I read the one about Brett’s committing suicide, and I almost dropped to my knees and cried. As I read on faster and faster to find a rebut, I came across Heather’s response saying that she knows him & his family. I filled with hope to God that it is true. I wish he or Alissa would let us all know that he is alive and well. I can’t imagine what kind of people would have sentenced him to those years of more hell.
And to Brett: My heart goes out to you Brett, with the warmest wishes and prayers and apologies on behalf of whatever imbeciles were on the jury, knowing that even apologies from their own God forsaken mouths wouldn’t come close to be enough to compensate for that horrific pain you had to live through at home and then again trough in our “justice” system… My God. I have nothing but sympathy, admiration and pride for you. I hope to God that you are alive, happy, and well with a wonderful wife and family or whatever it is in life you desire. God Bless you all.
Comment by Melissa
October 19, 2007 @ 1:01 am
I also just watched the documentary, and quickly hopped online to find out what happened with him. It’s quite, I don’t know … impressive(?) how quickly one can go from front page news, to an absolute mystery. I was very happy to hear his was released after 6 years. It was 6 years too long, but much better then 11-20. I hope the previous poster was accurate, and that Brett alive and well, with a family of his own. I wish nothing but the best for both him and his sister.
Ooh, and I agree, HBO should have a little tag at the end of the documentary noting that Brett was released after 6 years, is a husband and a father, and doing well … or something to the effect. It would save a lot of search engine traffic, lol.
Comment by Lauren
October 19, 2007 @ 11:32 am
I’m like you all. I just hope he’s ok. I saw this documentary a couple of years ago and then happened upon it again last night. I’m also totally disgusted with the father. His lame excuses seem to me like a smack in the face to his son who was forced to take matters into his own young hands. I could go on for days… What a tragic story. He deserves a happy ending.
Comment by Lisa
October 20, 2007 @ 11:33 am
If you found the case of Brett Reider unjust - you might want to check out the case regarding Brandon Hein at http://www.brandonhein.com. Talk about injustice. There is also a documentary available from Choices that is shown frequently on the encore channel. It is a very sad, sad, case of injustice that is currently still winding its way along the justice system. Very sad, and devastating case.
Comment by Debbie
October 22, 2007 @ 11:00 am
Sadly, and at the cost of Brett’s mother’s life and his irriplacable childhood…where did our ’system’ fail. I too agree with the prior comments….for those who see/hear this story, don’t quit asking for help. I know that many people can relate. IF in fact there is a ’spouse abuse syndrom’ that experts\courts\jurors accept when a spouse kills the other….what happened for this child. I have a real difficult time not feeling that the father should be partially responsible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope that there is some information that lets us know Brett and his sister are well…that Brett can somehow become a better person because of this and still have a chance at a good life. Regardless, he still deserves it. What a sad, sad story.
Comment by Debbie
October 22, 2007 @ 11:06 am
I hope Heather’s comment is accurate, and if so, AMEN! Should have read more careflly before my previous comment…..all of the comments!! I just hope that Heather can let Brett and his family know how much they are thought of and that their privacy and peace are respected.
Pingback by Lived To Tell » Brett Reider Is Alive and Doing Well
October 27, 2007 @ 2:28 pm
[…] When I first wrote about Brett Reider here I had just seen the documentary BRETT KILLED MOM: A SISTER’S DIARY on HBO and I wanted to write about my feelings and also to encourage everyone to watch what I thought was a very important film. I wasn’t even thinking that other people, who were, like me, wondering what had happened to Brett, would be searching the internet and coming to my site for answers. I posted what I had been able to find out here. I was saddened by the site that stated that Brett had committed suicide. I wanted a happy ending for this young man. As much as I wanted to know the truth I never imagined that I would receive an email from Brett’s wife Sara. She had heard about my site from a friend and wrote to let me know that not only is Brett alive, he is married with two beautiful boys and another baby on the way. […]
Pingback by Lived To Tell » What Happened To Brett Reider?
October 27, 2007 @ 2:31 pm
[…] My current entry, Brett Reider Is Alive and Doing Well , gives the conclusion to my search for answers. I have had numerous hits to my site from people who are wondering what ever happened to Brett Reider, the young man who was featured in the documentary about his life, Brett Killed Mom: A Sister’s Story, that aired on HBO. I wrote about my feelings after watching the documentary here. […]
Pingback by Lived To Tell » How Can You Measure It Doctor?
October 27, 2007 @ 2:33 pm
[…] The conclusion to my search for answers regarding Brett Reider can be found at Brett Reider Is Alive and Doing Well. […]
Comment by Holly Davenport
October 27, 2007 @ 4:10 pm
I am SO glad to read this! I am a 48 year old woman who watched this HBO special and have been trying for months to find out what happened to Brett. I too read that he committed suicide and was SO sad to read that! I can’t tell you how happy I am to see that he is SO HANDSOME! And is so happy with his wife and kids! There is a GOD after all! I too was emotionally abused and even at my age I suffer from it. I love my Mom, but even now try to find answers as to why.. I guess I will never know. People are good and bad, if she were 100% bad I could dismiss it. But I do love her. Anyway, what does Brett do for a living? They should put a follow up on HBO because it was such a touching story and people all over the world want to know he is well. Thank you so much for find this anwer. I wish you all good things Brett! You certainly deserve them!
Holly, NJ
Comment by Peggie C. Todaro
October 27, 2007 @ 4:56 pm
Dear Brett,
I am so glad to see you are alive and well and are happy! I saw that HBO special several times, mostly because I some how expected to see a different outcome! I searched to find how you were doing, only to be dead ended. I live in NJ and grew up in NY. My Mom was a “corrector!” and made me feel like I couldn’t do anything right. She was good and bad, but we are friends now. Even slight abuse like that can emotionally cripple a child, I can’t imagine the horror you went through! I grew up in a rich suburb of NY as well, and was always struck by how others thought my Mom was so wonderful, and then she was so mean to me! As I said, not all the time. She is sorry now, says she did the best she knew how to do, bla bla.. I love her, but still don’t understand how you can treat someone you love badly. I guess some things you will never know! I am so happy to see you “aged and handsome” and a wonderful Father! Your wife sounds like she is a beautiful person, to take the time to write what she did and tell everyone how well you are doing! Thank you for opening up and letting us see you are OK! Your children look so much like you, so sweet. What do you do for a living? Are you in touch with and friends with your Dad? Unfortunutly we can’t choose the behaviour of our parents. He thought he was just keeping the peace and doing what he could.. Personally I felt like he needed a spine donor! But nobody is perfect. You can tell he was a good man and was confused as to why his wife was like that.
God bless you Brett! I am truly happy you are OK and are doing so well! I literally cried when I heard about that suicide thing! Thank God that was incorrect!
Wishing you all and your baby much happiness!
Peggie
Sopie3192@aol.com
Comment by Christine
November 2, 2007 @ 7:58 am
I watched the HBO twice since it has aired. the first time was years ago. I didn’t know he had gotton out in 1999. I have a brother named Brett also. I’m glad he’s doing well; sorry to hear about his son’s autism. I know that Brett has to live the rest of his life knowing he killed his mother and probably relives that day of her murder. She will never know her grand kids, but the cycle of abuse has stopped. She won’t be able to abuse him ever again. I often wonder if his mother had lived if she would have been verbally abusive towards her grand kids,etc. Everything happens for a reason so I believe that things are the way they should be and hope he and his newfound family are involved in a church somewhere. Healing can take forever but forgiveness is free by God’s grace. Blessings to the Reider family and thank you for this website about him. I wondered how he was doing!! Thank you!!
Comment by Holly Davenport
November 7, 2007 @ 3:25 am
Yes Christine, I too wondered about what his mother would be like now. She obviously had a severe mental disorder, borderline to a severe mental illness, or most likely bipolar (manic depressive) illness. His father should have had her committed, and should have gotten her on meds. Of course, she would never have gone for that, and wouldn’t have gone easily. I am sure Brett has hopefully found a way to deal with this: it was either him or her. I hope he doesn’t dwell on this every day.. everyone needs help dealing. I hope he does see some sort of therapist. It certainly helps people to deal. I hope he is still close to his sister, his father of course was a nice man, even though he had no control over the situation at all. He should have taken control over her behaviour, obviously he saw what she was capable of. He was with her when she went after him when he snuck out of the house to a party. He saw what was happening, and did not even seek help or check out any shrinks at all. At any rate, I pray Brett deals with this and is happy. God bless you and your wife and kids. I hope you are able to make a good living, and all good things happen for you!
Sincerely,
Holly
Comment by Tammy
November 21, 2007 @ 12:59 pm
I edited this post to include Brett’s current occupation, with the permission of the family. Thanks for caring, everyone.
Comment by Dawn and Valerio
December 22, 2007 @ 4:54 am
Dear Brett, we have just watched the HBO documentary , and obviously we were curious to know what’s happened to you. Thanks to the internet and the people concerned about your well being we are extremely pleased to know not only that you are alive and well, but that you have your own family. We wish you all the best and we thank you and your sister for sharing with us your feelings and emotions. You have touched our hearts. Lots of love to you and your family. Dawn and Valerio
Comment by Arnold
December 22, 2007 @ 7:23 am
Like everyone else, I was touched by the documentary, it was like viewing sketches from my own life, this site helped me to realise I am not alone, a very sad fact indeed; I am please to know Brett is doing fine, I hope Alissa is doing well too; after reviewing all the posts, some people are taking it to hard on Brett’s dad, I had the opportunity to speak with mine about our own tragedy, there was very little for him to do, these are situations very difficult to deal with, “what would you do when the person you love behave like that?” my dad asked this question to himself, his answer was he loved his children as much as his wife, he hanged in there, with us, trying to ride life as we did. They (my parents) are gone now, I learnt thru live that parents behave like that for love to their children, an odd way to express their love, and fears, nevertheless, love.
Comment by Kristi
December 29, 2007 @ 10:33 pm
I used to write Brett while he was in prison. I have also heard that he is alive, well, happily married, a father and living far away from Nebraska. Brett is an amazing person and it devastates me when I think about how much the system truly failed he and Alissa. They are always in my thoughts.
Comment by Nikki Bennett
January 2, 2008 @ 3:44 am
I seen this story for the first time. And was in awe at a seemingly normal white mid-class family, were affected by abuse. I related to all of these things. And was abused as well. It could have been worse for me. But it had nothing to do with being push towards success. Just the stress of being a single parent amd coming from abuse. I am glad that i am not alone because i see your story and see there is hope for normalcy. I have a good relationship with both my parents. But i still deal with resenment and the what if’s. Thank you to and your site i love happy endings.
Comment by Barbara
January 2, 2008 @ 10:27 am
I just watched the HBO documentary again and was wondering whether this young man was out of prison and living a peaceful life. After seeing on the C&I website that he had committed suicide, my heart sank. Thank God it wasn’t true! Thank you so much for posting this info and I wish Brett and his beautiful wife and family a long, prosperous and peace-filled life. They deserve it, particularly Brett, who has been to Hell and back. I think that he should have never, ever spent one minute in prison and I hope he continues to live his life guilt free and feeling good about himself.
Comment by Shari
January 2, 2008 @ 1:24 pm
I Just finished watching Brett’s story on HBO and had to jump online and see what happened next. I agree that HBO should have added something at the end about how Brett is doing today. I am so glad to hear he got out early and has a wife and family. Brett you have a great sister. Stay strong and know there are people out here who you don’t even know that care about you.
Comment by Jean Lehmann
January 2, 2008 @ 2:44 pm
Dear Brett,
I too saw the HBO Diaries. I cried, and have seen it several times now, always crying and wondering how you are. I grew up near Omaha but was long gone by the time you were dealing with your horrible situation. I was SO happy to hear that you and your family are doing well. I do have a question, and maybe someone can answer it for me. Your Dad, although had issues dealing with reality - how is he? I was first really angry with him, and then I prayed for him. He really didn’t know any better, and I couldn’t judge him like I did. So please if anyone can give him the message that people do care, for you Brett, your sister … and your loving Father.
Thank you to your sister who made this documentary. And I am so happy that it does have a happy ending.
Signed a Friend in Wisconsin, Jean
Comment by erin
January 2, 2008 @ 8:27 pm
I just watched the documentary last night, and am so eager to find out how he is doing…I know he is probably trying to put the whole ordeal behind in, but his story is a moving one that should be given a conclusion.
Comment by lori W
January 7, 2008 @ 11:39 am
I too just watched the HBO Documentary on Brett and was really hoping at the end they would have a update, but since not I jumped on line and very happy to see him married and carrying on with a happy normal life!! “Good Luck Brett, you deserve it”
Comment by Kevin
January 10, 2008 @ 3:27 pm
I’m so glad that this site exists. I had to know what happened to Brett. I’m so happy that he is free and living his life like a normal person. Congratulations to Brett and his sister Alissa for having children. I’m from Nebraska too. I wish you all the best. You deserve a happy adulthood.
Comment by Melissa
January 10, 2008 @ 3:32 pm
I am glad that shortly after watching the documentry for the third time i found this site. I am glad to hear that he is doing well and is happy. Unfortunately child abuse is so prevalent in this country and hopefully some day soon better laws will be put in place enforcing child rights. It also is a great pleasure to see how active they are in autism awareness.
Comment by cary briggs
January 10, 2008 @ 3:39 pm
I too just watched the documentary today on HBO. I lived with abuse from my father. I am 40 years old and still live with echoes from the past. I wish the best for Brett’s family.
Comment by Lisa Rainear
January 10, 2008 @ 3:46 pm
I have seen this program before on A&E, I believe. HBO just aired it again on 1/10/08.
I Googled Brett’s name in hopes of finding some information on him. Thank you for your site and, especially to his wife Sara.
I pray God’s continued blessigs and favor on Brett, Sara, Gavin, Garrett and their new little one!
Words can never adequately express such intense regret over the innocence stolen from him..or absolute joy that his life is going forward so wonderfully!
There are those who have money and buy many cars, clothes, an houses. If I had money this is the the flower I would water. Brett, his beautiful family, especially little Gavin.
Go Gavin, kick autism in the butt! Gavin Rocks!!
The Reider fanily will always, always be in my prayers.
Comment by Shylah
January 10, 2008 @ 4:12 pm
I just tonight saw the documentry about Brett and right after it went off I was on a search to find out what had happened to him and his sister. At the time he was 15 I was only 4 so I had never heard of his situation. I’m glad to know that he is living a normal life and is happy. After everything he went thru and losing his childhood it’s good to know he is a peace and enjoying his adulthood. God has truely blessed him and his sister. His children are so cute and his wife is beautiful. He truely has a happy ending/begining to his life.
God bless,
Shylah
Comment by Sally
January 10, 2008 @ 4:18 pm
I too just saw the HBO documentry, and while I am overjoyed to hear that Brett has moved on in life and seems happy and well adjusted, I believe that Darwin (Brett’s father in this whole mess) should have been, at the very least, prosecuted for child neglect. This man has absolutely no idea what it means to be a parent, much less an adult! When his daughter asked him, twards the end of the show,why and how he allowed the situation to continue, his response is sickening. Essentially, he said that it was better to ruin the childrens lives than face the possibility of divorce! This man is a wolf in sheeps clothing. He’s a coward and a pathetic individual who should have never been allowed to have children.
Comment by Peyton Andrews-Yi
January 10, 2008 @ 6:04 pm
I’m watching your sister’s documentary, for the third time. I heard you were in The Lincoln Correctional Facility and I googled until I actually found you. I read about your sentence and your release and that’s what led me to this site. I can’t really tell you why I am writing you, I guess I just felt compelled to say “hi” to you, and to see what your life is like now
Comment by Psydrama
January 10, 2008 @ 6:23 pm
Thanks so much for this websites and updates. I am watching the film AGAIN on HBO (they really rerun that thing a lot) and sobbing for him and his sister. So glad to find good news. It really warms my heart to see Brett happy and healthy and surrounded by love. I will make it a point to check your site for more updates.
Comment by Daniel
January 10, 2008 @ 6:26 pm
my girlfriend and i just saw your sisters documentary and just wanted to say we are glad to see your doing well…
Comment by Ms Dee
January 10, 2008 @ 6:34 pm
I have saw this video several times and I just wanted to say may GOD BLESS you Brett, you have a beautiful family that you can express all the LOVE in your heart. You have been given the victory and don’t have to look at the past again. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Comment by Mike McCarthy
January 10, 2008 @ 6:39 pm
Greetings from Charlotte…Brett i know that you never visit this site as you probably want to leave the past where it belongs..in the past. We(my wife and I) just saw your sisters documentary and are over joyed that your life turned out so well. our prayers go out to you and your family.
Comment by Jay
January 10, 2008 @ 6:39 pm
I, too, just finished watching the documentary and immediately went to the internet to find out what had happent to Bret since this did occur in 1993. Shame on HBO for not including an update on Bret. Good for him for living his life the way it was intended to be!
Comment by Carolyn
January 10, 2008 @ 6:40 pm
I am so happy to see that you are doing well. I saw the documentary when it first aired in the mid 90s and I was so upset that you were even sentenced. The fact that you have been able to build a life for yourself and are doing well is really a testimony to God’s grace and your true character. Keep moving forward!
Comment by Shanetta Clay
January 10, 2008 @ 6:44 pm
Dear Brett, I just want to say I am so glad that you have been given a second chance at life. I want you to know that God is a man of his word and he sent his only son so that you could be forgiven for your sins as long as you forgive others that may have hurt you. This includes yourself so I hope that as time has passed you have been able to forgive yourself. God doesn’t want us to be condemned by our sins, he wants us to live abundantly in him. I am so glad that you and your wife are happy and I am extremly glad you didn’t have to stay in prison for 20 years. God had other plans for your life and I hope that you continue to let him lead you down the path of rightiousness for you are truely blessed, I don’t even know you and I can see it in your face and the faces of your wife and children. Take care and I hope that you recieve nothing less than the best of what life has to offer you. May God continue to bless you and your family:)
Comment by Sharon
January 10, 2008 @ 6:45 pm
I was waiting for an update at the end of the documentary and HBO just left me hanging. I had to jump online to see what I could find. Thanks for the update. I’m happy he’s finally recieving the love that he always deserved.
I’ve got to add however, that if either of those siblings have a relationship with their father, they are much better people than I. What a selfish, despicable person he is. Neglect and abandonment are not doing as he claims “the best he could” I truly believe that man should have been tried along with his son. Not that the mother’s behavior is forgivable, but she obviously was mentally ill. What is his excuse. Even his apologies seemed half hearted. I despise both “parental figures” and am wonderfully overjoyed that it appears both Brett & Alissa have broken the chain of abuse with what I’m sure are lovingly adored children of their own.
Comment by Stephanie
January 10, 2008 @ 7:04 pm
I just watched this documentary, and related to so much of it. My parents were very strict about grades, controlling every aspect of my life, beating me and constantly mentally abusing me. I was constantly told I was a failure even though I got straight A’s and behaved like the perfect daughter. I am now 30, and only now, married, and having moved to a different continent away from home, have I begun to come to terms with a lifetime of control. I have slowly begun to realize why I have so little self esteem and why I always criticize myself or never feel good enough. In my case, my father was the abuser and my mother supported it. Brett’s father is as guilty for being the bystander and allowing Brett’s mother to be the way she was. He is as guilty as she is. Parental neglect has as bad an effect as physical abuse. Brett’s mother seemed like a single mom who probably resented being left alone with no support from her partner. It saddens me.
For anyone who has had an abusive upbringing, that is the only normality you know. Sometimes you can carry it for the rest of your life. This book has really begun to help me understand my past and move on:
“Healing Your Emotional Self” by Beverly Engel
It changed my life. Please read it if you are trying to make sense of the maddness that surrounds you. And learn to forgive yourself.
Comment by Gretchen
January 10, 2008 @ 7:26 pm
I’m so glad to see that Brett is doing well. I just finished watching the documentary and I had to get on the computer to see if I could find out anything. I feel so sorry for Brett and what he had to go through. I feel it was not right that he had to grow up in jail and have his teenage years be taken from him like that. It’s so wonderful how he has been able to put it all behind him in some way and he now gets to enjoy his beautiful family. I thank his wife for letting others know that he is doing well.
Comment by Jeff
January 10, 2008 @ 8:52 pm
Hmm. I came across this site after watching the documentary. I found out what I was looking for — that Brett is doing well.
I also have to say that if Brett were to see everything we post, while I can’t speak for him, I think he might get tired of people saying how sorry they feel for him and giving him all the best wishes. I know I would.
It’s in the past, and he is doing good. Let’s leave it at that. Like this website states — the documentary was filmed when he was 16. He is now 30.
Let’s give him and his family a break…
Comment by El
January 11, 2008 @ 9:30 am
I saw the program last night and could not get Brett out my mind. First thing I did this morning was do a search to find out how he was - as I am sure everyone that sees the program wonders. The thing that killed me most was that he had to serve time. How? Their father should have served the time, the officers should have been reprimanded, and as for his friend, well there’s always karma. Although in my late 30’s, I’m still attached to my mother’s umbilical cord and love her dearly, am a parent, but I can truly understand why what happened, happened. So happy to know Brett is well and with family of hiw own. God bless.
Comment by Mary Schultz
January 11, 2008 @ 9:31 am
I just saw Alissa’s documentary last night and I felt terrible for Brett and his ordeal. He is obviously a gentle, good natured person by nature and his mother tortured him into doing something that he would never otherwise have done. That’s the real crime - she died in body, but Brett’s heart and spirit were dying inch by inch, and after all the abuse, he was still the one who had to pay the price. I do blame his father for not helping him - he may not have been home a lot, but he definitely knew what was happening. Alissa even recounted the time the whole family piled into their car to get Brett away from a party. Claudia was beating him in full view of her husband, and in the end Alissa was the only one who went to his rescue. It is a testament to Brett’s loving nature that he still can’t place any of the blame on his father. I was very happy to find this website and to know that Brett’s true nature has allowed him to live a good life full of love and family.
I also agree that there should be an update to that documentary whenever it is aired.
I disagree that people shouldn’t voice their support. Unfortunately, Brett’s life became public long ago. He can read this or not read it if he wants - he has a choice. But if he wants, he’ll know people care that he’s doing well. Wishing a person well is not stalking.
Comment by David Raymore
January 11, 2008 @ 10:42 am
I watched this documentary last night on HBO Family, and I was quite moved by what happened to the children from their horrible mother. I thought the father was neglectful, and he should have divorced his wife and gotten custody of his children in order to protect them. I wish they explained their mother’s past more because it may shed some light on why their mother was so abusive and controlling. I can relate to this situation since my own father was physically and verbally abusive to my brother, sister, and me. I still have the scars from all those years of his abuse, and I am finally seeing a therapist in order for me to forgive him. He was a troubled man who was also abused from his mother. I just wished he sought some help. I had no thoughts on killing him or anything, but I did move on with my life and I never saw again for over twenty years. He died about two years ago.
I am glad to hear that Brett has a new lease on life and that he is happy with his own family. I think the justice system failed on this case, and the police were also neglectful in not believe Brett’s story of his mother’s abuse. I especially did not like the fact his so called friend from his high school turned on him in order to save himself from prosecution. He was such a coward. Everyone in the family thought things would get better, but it never did. The main reason why things never changed is because the mother needed psychiatric help. People like that never do change or get help for their problems.
I hope someday they will do another documentary on Brett’s story with the most current information. I hope Brett has forgiven his mother because by doing that the mother no longer has the power to hurt him anymore.
Comment by Sandy
January 11, 2008 @ 2:38 pm
I watched the HBO program again last night and was so glad to learn that Brett finally received the loving family he deserved. I have a personal understanding of abuse. But for me it the role is reversed. I am an abused mother! Oh my God I said it! And your fathers role was played by my husband! He’s 20 now and with the help of friends I got him out just last night. Please pray with me for the best. No one can truely understand unless they live it. To have someone you love dearly slowly change from aloving you to beating you is bad enough, but the emotional abuse is the thing that takes control of your life. And it gets worst. Day after day, year after year until, not a shred of the person you loved is there anymore, until the very thought of them sends you into panic. I know I have along way to go! And that I will never understand WHY! I know that I will always carry this with me no matter how much I try, but if Brett can do it so can I. This is day one of my new life! P.S. Brett, I know that you want to put that part of your life behind you but, no matter how many years go by when they show this film there will be people like me lost, blaming themselves, waiting for things to get better. And by watching your film it opens our eyes to the truth. Giving us the courage to take action! Before it’s too late! If only my son was half the son you where! I would have been so happy and proud. You and your family are in my prayers!
Comment by Jim Reis
January 13, 2008 @ 8:20 am
Like many of you, I watched the program 1/10/08 and was moved to tears. Like a couple of you who are able to admit it, I went through almost exactly what Brett went through. The amazing thing is that it happened to me 1000 miles away and 30 years earlier. The hell that it is is unbelievable. However, I have written a manuscript which details, among other things, all sorts of “bad parenting”, including the extreme cases like Brett and me and several of you. And, for those of you who care, I am contacting HBO in an attempt to do the follow-up that so many of you seem to think is necessary. I don’t want to focus on Brett. He’s done enough and gone through enough. I want to expose the many levels of child abuse and the many types of child abuse. Physical violence gets all the attention because of the bloody headlines it garners. there is far more to child abuse than physical violence. I was subjected to mostly verbal abuse and the consequences can be even more devastating than the physical abuse. I know that there are millions of people around the world who have been subjected to all kinds of abuse at the hands of parents. The good news is that my manuscript gives people answers. It explains what happened to the parents who did these things and how victims can get back some control of their lives. It tells people the truth about what happens to the children who are the victims of this heinous crime. It explains why our society does virtually nothing to protect the children of abuse and allows the situation to continue. I hope that all of you who have written or those who run this site will help me in my effort to get the word out. I would be glad to release the name and e-mail for the guy at HBO who is my contact so that everyone can contact him and tell him to let me do this follow-up.There are answers to the problem of child abuse. In my mind, it is an epidemic worldwide and needs to be addressed in a public forum. But, hey, if Oprah can’t even see the abuse that her father heaped upon her, what can the rest of us do? As I say in my book, “If I can prevent one child from having to go through the hell that Brett and I went through, then my life may have been worthwhile. Otherwise, thanks to abusive and neglectful parents, it is worthless, just like my mother guaranteed me it would be … over and over and over and over and over, again and again and again and again. And again.
Sincerely,
Jim Reis
Comment by Jim Reis
January 14, 2008 @ 6:53 am
OK,I was only kidding about releasing the e-mail of the guy at HBO. Just e-mail me, Jim Reis, at
puzzlz4u@yahoo.com
if you want to do something about child abuse. Some of you agree with me that it is a huge problem and that little is being done. I believe that people in authority are poorly trained to deal with these situations and this has to be corrected. I also believe that everyone who has taken the time to e-mail this site after watching the HBO program on Brett must have had some experience with this type of child abuse. Your story is important. I have a method of letting you look at your life and get through the past. You don’t have to feel bad about what happened to you. IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT!
Jim Reis
Comment by Rose Papandrea
January 15, 2008 @ 9:45 pm
I cannot tell you how happy I was when I read that Brett is doing well! Years ago I watched the documentary and was so angered by how this poor kid was tortured by a sadistic woman. Though I dont condone what he did, I have to say, the abuse this kid endured was so extreme that she made him do it. I wish that Brett and his beautiful family have love, peace and joy for all their days.
Comment by TR Reed
January 15, 2008 @ 10:27 pm
I just saw the docmentary. This is certainly a tragedy for the Reider family and particularily Brett. I suppose the lesson here is to not only “hear” but listen and take action to prevent such tragedies. Everyone failed Brett. But, he is showing that the best response is simply to “Live a good life.” It is what we all hope for him and so many others. I’m not sure if I would have done any different than he under the same circumstances, but I don’t envy a judge or jury who must weight the interest of society against the relentless physical and psychological abuse of a young man. Brett Reider must learn to forgive himself - as certainly anyone who has learned of his story has already done so. Best Wishes, Brett.
Comment by Grey-
January 15, 2008 @ 10:38 pm
I just want to say that I just watched the documentary on HBO and I could not believe what I was watching. I have never jumped up from watching a documentary and followed up to see how his life has played out as I am doing now. It never seemed so real to me how a mother could do such damage to her child to the point where a child can do such a thing back to his mother in response. Killing will never be acceptable but I would be lying if I said that I did not feel for Brett. It brought me to tears because as a teenager it is perhaps one of the hardest phases in life, and to have endured such torture for 15 years is unimaginable for me. I am glad Brett is alive and doing well, with a family of his own. Hopefully, he can see how much support he has by going on this website, and seeing that he wasn’t alone in his unforgettable struggle of abuse. May his mother soul rest in peace, and I wish him nothing but love and peace of mind.
Comment by mike borini
January 15, 2008 @ 10:38 pm
I just watched the documentary on HBO, wow, what an amazing story. I came right over to the computer and looked up Brett to see his current status. I am extremely happy to find out that he is doing well. I hope he continues doing well and wish him all the best!
GOD BLESS,
Comment by Artecia
January 15, 2008 @ 10:39 pm
im glad that you are living your life with ur beautiful family… im also glad to see that you and your sister are doing good. you made something of your self and im proud of you. and your not alone… you never were alone …. God bless you Brett
Comment by Siobhan Scianna
January 15, 2008 @ 10:41 pm
Brett- I just watched the show and I am utterly amazed at how calm and together you are while speaking of the terrible abuse you survived. It tells me that this was not an angry young man, this was a little boy trapped. You looked like you were still in shock. I came here hoping to find out that you are ok and am glad to hear that you are.I wish you and your family happiness for the rest of your days. I believe you did what you needed to do to survive. You said that “killing your own mother is an abomination”. Brett the truth is, that treating your children in such a horrible way that they would want you dead, is the ultimate abomination. Never in my life have I understood so well why someone would kill somebody. Be good to yourself.
Comment by J
January 15, 2008 @ 10:43 pm
Dear Brett,
I am pretty sure that you do not read this and would just assume get over what has happened to you. However, I feel that, as a police officer, after watching how you felt so helpless I make it a point to separate each party in ANY “domestic incident” that I respond to. People, especially children, do not call 911 without reason and I am a firm believer of that. My father suffered at the hands of intense physical and mental abuse and it led me to do the work that I do now. My heart sincerely goes out to you as I attempt to empathize what you went through, as a police officer, as a former prison guard, and as another survivor in the cycle of abuse.
-J
Comment by Joe
January 15, 2008 @ 10:46 pm
I just finished watch the story of the Reider family, and like many others I found myself on the internet hoping to find a happy ending for Brett and Alissa. I was relieved when I found that happy ending.
I think intent is something that is far to easily dismissed in the legal system. In my opinion a murderer is someone that takes another persons like for some kind of personal gain, thrill, or total lack of respect for life. It is not murder in any way shape or form when a youngt boy finally breaks and acts out in self defense in a situation where NOBODY would help him despite obvious cries for help. Brett did not need jail. He needed someone to care. Someone strong to rescue him. Same for Alissa. I am so happy to hear that niether of them became what they hated and feared which is so often the case.
This story hit home for me because from the time I can remember beng old enough to have memories the memories are of nothing but fear, bullying and abuse. I was small, and soft spoken as a young child. An easy target for bullies, and thats how it started. It progressed from there. No matter where I went or what kind of people I was around I wasfor some reason or another a target. In school, at the playground, the pool, and of course at home. I had been beaten up by nieghborhood bullies, had dogshit wiped in my hair, and been tied to a folding chair and unrinated on. there was no escape anywhere for me. Bullies everywhere, and then an abusive mother at home. Throw in the fact that my mom was 5′10 and extremely strong for a woman. She would beat me with her fist, or whatever she could pick up and swing ro throw at me. If I went down I got kicked. My only escape was weekends at my fathers. Unfortunately I knew at an early age what kind of man my father was. Had I told him he would have killed her. Plain and simple. At the age I was at I still loved my mother and didn’t want to see her hurt.
Fortunately, at the expense of the local bullies I discovered I had grown into a strong young man and an excellent amateur boxer. The last time my mother ever put her hands on me was when I was 16. She went to punch me and I caught her fist in the air, grabbed her throat and put her against the wall. I said “tats the last time you ever hurt me.” I walked out and went to live with my father. I have never seen her since. I do not miss her at all. I don’t feel sorry for her either. To be honest… she is the only person I hate. She is dead now and I hope there is a hotter place in hell for her.
I plan on using her mistakes to make me a great father when the time comes. Thank you to all who read this.
Comment by greg pinto
January 15, 2008 @ 10:47 pm
Great and moving film by Alissa.I hope she is well.What a courageous lady.Thanx for the moving experience of watching your documentary.
Comment by jennifer grounds
January 15, 2008 @ 11:09 pm
i only got to catch the tale end of the show on HBO on 1-15-08 and i was wondering if they wrote a book about it. i really would like to own it if they did. i am so glad that he is doing well and has moved on with his life.
Comment by KB
January 15, 2008 @ 11:13 pm
First I want to say, like everyone else, I am so relieved that Brett is doing well. I also agree that he should be left alone. Don’t think for one second that this does not haunt him every day. I am 42 and after watching Brett’s story, I was so shocked and hurt to see that allmost nothing has changed in 4 decades. Why are children STILL having to fear getting help because attempting to get help just ends up resulting in the abuse getting worse EVERYtime. I still don’t talk about it (this is the closest I have come) and it has destroyed my life. I only blame myself for this as I feel that I have let it destroy my life. I have raised 2 boys and I stopped the cycle as I refused EVERY DAY to be like my mother. I let them know every single day how much I love them and how amazing they are. My demons I keep for myself, after all, that is how we are programmed. What scares me is that, as long as we continue to keep these things to ourselves, this cycle will forever continue. Children will still be afraid to seek help and suffer silently for another 4 decades. This just has to stop…
Comment by KB
January 15, 2008 @ 11:26 pm
P.S. I am 42 and still afraid of my mother. What do we do with that?
Comment by elizabeth
January 15, 2008 @ 11:28 pm
Dear Brett - I’m an adult child of a hyper-
critical alcoholic mother and absent Dad.
My mother used to say that I’d never amount
to anything and would probably end up a suicide.
Well, somewhere along the way I’d heard the
saying “Living well is the best revenge.” After
years of drug abuse, pain and finally, good
therapy, I forgave my parents and allowed myself
to love and be loved. (It helped us a lot that
Mom finally ‘bit the big one’ back in 2000.) She
was a total ‘Black Hole’ and when she went I
remember my sisters and I looking at each other
and saying “We’re free, no more being sucked into
that negative vortex.”
Obviously, I still have days when I want to take
the forgiveness back as I imagine you and your
sister do. My Dad continues to act like nothing
wrong ever happened but his denial is his problem,
ya know what I mean?
We all now have love and truth in our lives
and the ability and resources to keep healing ourselves.
Prayer helps a lot.
I am now married to a good man and I am a painter
by profession. Do I “paint out” my issues? No, I
paint about themes with hope and happiness. If I
feel the need to vent, I see my therapist or go
to a 12-step meeting.
I’m so happy to see you thriving! Your wife
and kids look adorable. I send a prayer for
you and your familys’ continued happiness
and a special blessing for your autistic child.
Keep on keepin’ on. Elizabeth
Comment by joel
January 16, 2008 @ 1:01 am
thanks for finding this out.
Comment by elizabeth
January 16, 2008 @ 1:17 am
I forgot to thank Alissa for her courage in
confronting your shockingly spineless and
passive-agressive Dad and for helping to make
this very important and poignant documentary.
I’m sure you realize at this point that your
Dad was as sick as your Mom but in a different
way. If he chooses not to heal himself or
recognize his part in the total dynamic he is
still sick.
Your continued prayers for his recovery may or
may not open his eyes but you and Alissa will
always feel better.
‘Best, Elizabeth.
Comment by Jennifer B.
January 16, 2008 @ 1:38 am
I was so surprised when I watched the documentary, How horrible our justice system is. My brother is looking at 20 years for selling a little pot(not saying that is right by no means) but I was watching the news and a man who beat and molested his little girl was only getting 2 years probation!!!!! What’s up with that? I just don’t understand……….
Comment by Michael Matthews
January 16, 2008 @ 1:45 am
Thanks for posting this update. Like may viewers of the documentary I too immediately searched the Internet in order to discover how Brett was doing. The film touched me in ways that are difficult to explain. My prayers are with Brett, his family, and all others that are living with the repercussions of abusive guardians. God bless everyone that cared enough to find this site.
Comment by JUDY
January 16, 2008 @ 2:54 am
I watched it to, earlier last night. Like everyone, I was also concerned for Brett and wished to know how he is doing. Brett, I am so glad to read that you are doing well and have a good life. Take good care of yourself. God bless you and your family.
Comment by Mary
January 16, 2008 @ 4:47 am
I also watched this documentary last night on HBO just as I was falling asleep, and kept this young man’s name in my head all night long. When I awoke this morning, the first thing I did was to get online and do a Google search to find out what happened to him, in hopes of finding him alive and doing well.
Thank you so much to Brett’s wife for the update and wonderful photos, and for allowing you to post them all as proof that one can, indeed, move on from such a tragedy.
I also applaud Brett’s sister for standing by him and supporting him so well throughout…but my strongest kudos go to Brett himself for coming through everything with such grace and apparent dignity.
Comment by Jennifer A.
January 16, 2008 @ 8:49 am
wow, im amazed at how many other people saw it. to brett and his family, i am so happy that things are ok, like everyone else, i caught myself crying as i watched in horror how there was no help for you and your sister. But what bad happens, God can always turn around for good, and now people are being made aware of this, with help from your courageous sister’s movie, most people do think, like you, that abuse is from a drunk dad, never a mom, but it happens, more than we know or think, and you bringing light to this is helping people, helping them vent and helping them find help. Knowing it wasnt their fault, they are good enough, it wasnt them, it was the parents fault. And I too felt very angry at your dad, and his leaving Alissa’s house when the questions got tough at the end is typical of him, when it gets tough, he leaves. I am so happy to see Brett’s beautiful wife and children and am relieved that he is out of jail and didn’t serve the whole sentence, which was