HOLLYWOOD – Cheryl Burke is known for her expert dance moves but many didn't know that she endured a childhood trauma.
In ''Breaking the Silence'', a powerful TLC documentary about childhood sexual abuse aired recently, Burke revealed the ordeal that she went through when a neighbor entrusted for her care molested her.
"It really made me feel like I could speak out and I feel like I've helped a lot of people along the way. They just saw a different side of me that not a lot of people really knew about," she said.
At six years old, Burke also testified against the abuser when he was caught trying to hurt another child.
In opening up, Burke said she wants everyone to know that she's proof that people can have strength to move on from this kind of tragedy.
"But it always helps to talk about stuff like that and it makes you a stronger person because of it," she added.
The Filipino-American dance star also shows that survivors like her cannot only thrive. They can also be champions.
The 'Dancing with the Stars' multiple winner continues to have a successful career on television. She starred on NBC's summer hit "I Can Do That". She also recently guested on the network's ''Hollywood's Game Night''.
The star also has a fashion line Cee Bee, an active wearline available on QVC.
A few years ago, Burke also wrote a book called "Dancing Lessons" that talked about her struggles growing up and how she found success.
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source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
