Abuse Survivor Turns Memoir Into Film to Help Millions

After surviving decades of childhood abuse that began when she was just three years old, Avonley Lightstone wrote a memoir to show other survivors they're not broken. Now that story is headed to the screen.

Lightstone launched a crowdfunding campaign in January 2025 to adapt "Strength of Scars" into a feature film or television series. A renowned producer whose credits include "300," "Immortals," and "The Spiderwick Chronicles" has expressed strong interest in bringing her story to life.

The Salt Lake City author isn't seeking sympathy. She wrote the book to break the silence that allows abuse to thrive and to illuminate a path toward healing and reclaiming identity after trauma.

"This story survived with me for decades and now it's ready to be seen," Lightstone said. "I wrote it so survivors would know they are not broken, and healing is possible."

Published in summer 2025 after years of writing and personal recovery, the memoir exposes the painful realities of abuse hidden behind closed doors. But the story doesn't center on trauma alone. It focuses on the extraordinary strength required to overcome it.

The campaign aims to raise $50,000 to fund professional screenplay development, strategic marketing to studios, and retaining creative rights during adaptation. Lightstone wants to ensure her life story remains authentic when it reaches wider audiences.

Why This Inspires

Millions of abuse survivors suffer in isolation, believing they're alone in their pain. Bringing this story to film or television could reach people who might never pick up a book but desperately need to hear its message.

Lightstone has already written three additional books continuing her story and sharing practical insights on healing from trauma. The film adaptation represents the next step in expanding her mission beyond readers to visual storytelling that sparks critical conversations.

"Abuse thrives in the dark," Lightstone said. "But healing happens when we shine a light. This film could be that light for someone who thinks they're alone."

The crowdfunding campaign is live on GoFundMe, giving supporters worldwide the chance to help transform a deeply human story into a visual experience capable of changing lives.