Two cousins.
Eight years.
Their shared story.
Dear Judith is the true story of artist and incest survivor Judith Dawn Hickey, written and published by her cousin, Jean Cozier, Chicago-area writer and sexual abuse survivor.
First cousins from a family with a history of violence, alcohol, and sexual abuse, they shared the next eight years of their lives through their correspondence.
Dear Judith is their harrowing story.
Check out the first part of Jean and Judith’s story.
Forever remembering Judith.
Meet the Author
Jean Cozier
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Jean Cozier is an author, podcaster, and storyteller. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, she tirelessly endeavors to create healing through artistic expression. Words, rhythm, and tone have long been her greatest allies, both as tools for personal healing and as inspirations to others.
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Jean's relationship with Judith and the grief over her loss inspired Jean to start the Judith Dawn Memorial Fund, In life, Judith inspired Jean to explore her memories of child sexual abuse.
Through therapy and art, they both found the courage to heal and create.
This was the foundation of Jean's next endeavor - The Judith Dawn Memorial Fund. This fund was later administered by the Awakenings Foundation, which she founded in 2010. Through this organization, she was able to provide space and resources for survivors to artistically express their lived experiences of sexual abuse. She tirelessly created the healing space her and her cousin Judith never had.
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As life continued to ebb and flow, and the years went by, Jean ramped up her philanthropic efforts and became a major donor. Many Chicago area non-profits related to sexual abuse and violence have grown and benefitted from her donations. She continues to touch and impact the lives of those she will never meet.
Testimonials
“I am enriched and inspired by both of these women and am so grateful to have found this book.”
“An exceptionally moving and honest book...a well-lit mirror and a concrete lifeline... ”
“...this is the documentation of two women having their regular lives while also dealing with a concurrent life of pain, fear, trust, and recovery....”