Warrior: From surviving child sexual abuse to building the first world-class treatment centre for kids who have been sexually abused.

by Glori Meldrum

A powerful, uplifting, inspiring book about overcoming childhood trauma and finding light through the darkness. Written with love and grace, Glori opens up about her childhood sexual abuse, her fight to survive and how it shaped her to become the powerhouse she is today. Raw and beautifully written, she weaves in humour and honesty as she takes readers on a journey of vulnerability, perseverance and triumph. A breathtaking read!

Paperback

Published October 23, 2020

About the author

Glori Meldrum is a business leader, entrepreneur, author and founder and chair of Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch, a first-of-its-kind, world-class treatment centre for children across Canada who have been sexually abused. She is also the mother of four beautiful children and the wife of the world’s most patient man.

In 1998, after studying at Dalhousie University, Glori came to Edmonton and founded the full-service marketing agency g[squared]. Glori has been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network and Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2009. She was also named one of the Top 40 Canadians Under 40 by Caldwell Partners International, and in 2012 was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee. Glori is also a proud member of YPO’s Alberta Chapter.

As a survivor of child sexual abuse, Glori has also endured unspeakable trauma. Recently, a struggle with stage 3 cervical cancer brought her life to a halt. She began a journey of rediscovering her faith, practicing self-love and focusing on her mental health. She has discovered resiliency, love and hope by being a voice for vulnerable children, and by advocating for social change in the business and non-profit communities. Glori leads her life from a place of love, not fear.

Reviews

[Holly Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Child sexual abuse is a topic that most people find uncomfortable. Glori Meldrum shares her experiences in a raw and authentic way, telling the story of her life from her parents split in early childhood to her abuse at the hands of someone she should have been able to trust, and into adulthood. She chronicles her journey from scared child to becoming a stand out advocate for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, eventually founding the worlds first residential evidence backed treatment facility for sexually abused kids. This is not a fun story in a lot of parts and it’s a hard topic, but one that she shows we need to open our eyes to both in Canada and around the world. Worth the read!

[Donna Saskiw · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a survivor, this book has changed my life. It speaks of forgiveness and surrender of which I’ve done both.
After 38 years of having a wall around my husband it came crashing down. I have never felt such a weight being lifted.
I know God has been speaking to me for years and after reading Warrior I’m finally listening. My heart is full and I know what life I have left is going to be GREAT. Warrior has given me a strength I’ve never had before. Warrior will forever sit on my coffee table and each morning that SMILE will remind me how far I’ve come. Thank You Glori ❤️🙏

[Gary Meldrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a word, inspiring. Glori has used the tragedy she experienced and turned it into rocket fuel to propel her to do great things. The best part is, these great things are not materials "things". Instead, she has used her strength, smarts and ambition to help others, and focused on giving and making generational change. The book is written with relatable honesty and you will surely want to read it in a single sitting.

[Cheryl Viau-Learning · Rating 5 out of 5]

everyone needs to read this book!! It is time that we unite as Warriors and stop the trend. Child sexual abuse does serious damage to the mental wellbeing if not healed, we need to band together and make the world understand.

[Tricia Lukow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to read this and pre-ordered it ahead of time. I found out about Little Warriors long ago and have tried my best to support them in various ways and events as I am also a sexual abuse survivor. I would recommend this book to ANYONE, including any that have children or plan on having children. Her journey is so inspiring and incredible, from child to warrior after so many obstacles and challenges - not only in her life, but in creating Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch.
I hope we can all learn to be as brave as Glori and pursue our dreams.

[Janet M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful book! The author’s willingness to share such a personal story of childhood sexual abuse not only serves to have others feel “not alone” but goes on to show that “in spite of” it is possible to have a rewarding and fulfilling life. Glori had a dream to change the lives of children who have also been sexually abused and through perseverance has worked tirelessly to see it become reality. A true story of HOPE! And inspiration that one person can make a huge difference in many lives and in many generations. I highly recommend it👏💯

[Lee-Anne Murakami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! From the first page to the last words, Glori Meldrum tells the story of a true warrior! Glori takes us on a journey into a childhood immersed in the depths of disfunction and despair. A detailed recount of a troubling series of life changing events that would crumble even the strongest of us. Her live forever altered by the very people who were supposed to protect and care for her. Glori tells of how she took those events that impact her still every day and used them as the deep seeded motivation to ensure future generations have a place to go. Part of her life’s work has been creating an organization and world class treatment centre that educates, supports, and treats those who have been affected by the very atrocities she endured. Through the ashes of despair comes a true warrior in my eyes.

[Katherine Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate and courageous, Glori shares her story of abuse, survival and resilience with so much love, candour and authenticity you can’t help but feel that you are having a private conversation with a close friend.

Warrior will open your eyes to childhood sexual abuse and it’s long-term impacts in a very real way. As you get to know little Glori, you will find yourself cheering for her as she finds success and navigates the waters that have shaped who she is today. Inspiring, heartwarming, uplifting, and beautifully told, Glori’s story is a must read.

[Mary Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing and holds your interest. It is unbelievable what Glori went through as a young child and has survived. Also am so proud of her to be able to write this story and also set up the little warriors camp. The things that young children go through when abused is horrendous. And the people who do the abusing get off with it. Nothing can give back the childhood of the individuals.
Thank you Glori for writing this book. I am amazed what a strong person you are. We can all take a lesson from you.

[Roxanne Hatcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very inspiring book written by a Warrior Glori Meldrum. She wrote from the heart with such grace about the horrors she had to endure as a child, how it has affected her life, and what she was able to do to help others and accomplish herself. It's a story everyone should read to understand the life long effects of sexual abuse. It gives anyone who has gone through any kind of chaos or abuse, hope and that they are not alone.
I highly recommend this book. It's like nothing I have read before.

[Rio St. Germain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glori delivers a blockbuster story about her amazing life and how it was shaped in a horrific way by her grandfather Wib. He was a predator and ruined Glori's innocent childhood by sexually assaulting her. Wib is the evil doer. He is the villain and the sicko. He is the kind of person we do not want in our society any longer. Glori is the hero, the winner and the Warrior! She healed herself into the beautiful woman she is today. Glori is building a better, kinder future and for that I give her a standing ovation!

[Wanda Polzin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glori’s story of trauma and child sexual abuse is unfortunately shared in similar ways with others. She tells her truth but more importantly shares her personal journey in a way that allows others to be validated in their own stories. She truly is a “Warrior”, bravely demonstrating resiliency at its finest, and many children and families are benefitting from her pursuit to make dramatic changes in the way that Child Sexual Abuse is recognized and clinically treated.

[Bob Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping from the opening paragraph. The title, Warrior, fits Glori Meldrum perfectly. Glori courageously opens her heart to share her compelling story of fighting back against childhood sexual abuse, fighting to build the first world class center for survivors of childhood sexual abuse and fighting fear and hate to learn to lead with love. Warrior is a book for you. Her story will inspire you to face challenges, learn the power of forgiveness and develop grit.

[Tanya Berner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't read many non-fiction books but I couldn't put this one down. Glori shows true spirit and triumph in how she has taken her childhood sexual abuse and life experiences and created Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch. Her resiliency and honesty make for a powerful book that was hard to put down. Its an inspiring story of strength and healing that has life lessons for all.

[Greg Swecera]

A true warrior in every sense of the word. Glori tells her story with such grace, courage, love and faith. Once you pick it up and begin reading you cannot put it down. Heart warming and heart breaking, it will have you cheering for little Glori through her battles and courageous journey to the successful business woman she is today.

[Laurie Szymanski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Glori’s book “Warrior” twice now and each time I take away something new. This is a story of Glori’s life journey from survival to surrender and resiliency. Her strength and passion to make life better for children who have experienced child sexual abuse is unwavering. She has built a place of hope and love for these children, something she never had. Glori is an inspiration for all.

[Bev Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read! It’s a story that needs to be told. Its a topic that needs to be discussed! It’s a shameful world when our broken systems allow monsters to continue to Walk this planet and hurt our children. It saddened me and pissed me off but it’s really a story of endurance & hope. Parents ~ READ THIS BOOK & Talk to your kids about it.

[Julianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glori Meldrum shares her story of child sexual abuse and the pain and trauma that follows it. She shares truth in a way that others can feel seen, heard, and understood in their stories, and she gives hope and inspiration for a path through the pain. She has taken her story and made it into a blessing for many. 🤍🤍

[Jonathan Jin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is for anyone who wants to have a better understanding of how devastating child sexual abuse is. It is an amazing story of Glori's resilience, life experiences as well as the inception of the Little Warriors treatment facility. This has been one of the most meaningful books I have read in the last while and I would recommend it to anyone.

[Jennifer Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

As sad as sexual assault is, I really enjoyed this book and would like to thank Glori for putting her heart and soul into this. As I read each page i could relate to what Glori went through and continues to struggle with in everyday life. Glori, thank you so much for all you do, sincerely Jennifer.

[Christina Ansems · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book. Glori makes my heart so happy.
So well written, so hard to put down, but yet so hard to read at the same time.
Glori, you’re brave, courageous and so filled with love. You are a warrior. All I can say is thank you!

[Patrick Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was well written in a way that was honest and with the senstivity to survivors. Glori took us step by step through her journey and it was inspiring. As a survivor I have learned that perseverrnce pays off and we never know how are actions might lead to something great.

[Michelle Berkvens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don't know where to begin and end when it comes to this remarkable woman, Glori Meldrum.

I knew before reading Glori's book that I would need a box of Kleenex.
I was right!
It was just Glori, myself, my cats cuddling and a box of Kleenex as I read her book.

I feel Everyone needs to read Glori's book. This book is not just written for us survivors of sexual abuse. Glori opens your eyes, your heart and educates you on this horrible topic that so many seem to sweep under the rug.

To all those who snubbed me and did not believe me when I confided in you. I forgive you.

When I was around my preteen years, I went searching for safe haven for abused children to go. I could not find anything! Not even my doctor was really able to help me. "Talk to a counsellor" is the only answer I got.
My thoughts turned to wanting to build a safe haven for abused children to seek refuge and help.
After years of dreaming about this magical place in my mind, I realized I don't know where to start or begin to build such a safe haven for children. I had no clue what I was doing.
My dreams turned to into prayers. Praying, asking God if he knew anyone on this earth who can build such a place.

He did! Glori Meldrum. She is truly a gift from God!!

I remember when I first heard of Glori Meldrum on Facebook (Nov. 2011. 9 years ago) and I learned very quickly what this woman's mission was all about.
I fell to my knees and bawled my eyes out in Sheer Joy! I Thanked God for answering my prayers, and I still do. I Thank God for Glori Meldrum every day. I absolutely adore her!!

Glori Meldrum, You Saved My Life!! I Love You So Much!! Your book came at the most pivotal time of my life. ( , ) my story is not over, I matter, I am not invisible

Glori Meldrum, Thank you for listening to your inner self and the messages you received in your moments of silence.
Thank you for building the "Be Brave Ranch" a safe haven for abused children to seek refuge and help.

Building such a safe haven for children to go to. That is not an easy task to take on.
Glori Meldrum did not give up or give in. She knew she had to answer God's whispers. It was her mission. It was her calling!

Thank You God So Very Much for Glori Meldrum and her Tribe 🤗🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼🤗 Thank You Thank You Thank You!!!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am deeply blessed to call Glori a friend and mentor. She has inspired me since the moment I met her. Her spirit radiates with love, hope, compassion, and acceptance. She is authentic, vulnerable, and honest; all qualities I respect and admire in her so much. She is truly a walking example of what is possible after taking ownership of one's life, taking action to heal, and turning tremendous pain into purpose. Warrior is just as I imagined it to be - raw, honest, vulnerable, and real. The journey getting where she is today didn't come without tremendous hardship, obstacles, and pain. She fought hard to become the woman, wife, mother, business owner, and leader she is today. If you desire to be inspired and encouraged to not only face the pain and traumas of your life but also to overcome and persevere beyond them, this is a must read! Thank you for being a tool for love, hope, and healing in this world and being a voice for survivors of child sexual abuse. Little Warriors only exists because of the call God placed on your heart to create a safe space for these children to heal. I love you my Glori and I'm so damn proud of you and what you stand for! With gratitude, Ashley Mielke.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished reading Warrior by Glori Meldrum, a powerful Canadian memoir that traces her journey through childhood sexual abuse, the long process of healing, and her determination to help other survivors.

Meldrum writes with honesty and clarity, sharing not only the painful realities of abuse but also the resilience, setbacks, and insights that shaped her recovery.

What makes the book especially compelling is how she anchors her personal story to a larger vision—the dream of creating a safe and comprehensive treatment centre for abused children. Step by step, readers follow her as she works through her own trauma while also building the foundation for what would become Little Warriors, a centre just outside Edmonton, Alberta.

The writing is strong and accessible, with moments that are both heartbreaking and inspiring. I came away with a deeper appreciation of the survivor’s journey and the incredible courage it takes not only to heal but also to turn pain into hope for others. The realization of her dream is a moving and triumphant conclusion that left me feeling both humbled and uplifted.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light and hope, born from darkness

Amazing, sad, profound.

From suicidal ideation, to creating hope and healing for sexually abused children.

I'm sickened but sadly not shocked by the law enforcement and gov't handling of these types of cases. This story focuses on the Canadian government, but its the same or worse the world over. Reform is needed.

Glori and her little warriors, hopefully you have started a generation of hope and reform.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for survivors and politicians. The words I was reading on the pages could have been my own in so many ways.
What struck me most was the idea that govt won’t find a facility that would save so much in the long run. Not just people, but money on addiction, heartache of suicide and possibly many houseless people would be helped before it ever got that far. So many of society issues are due to childhood trauma

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brutally honest and raw, with a side of inspiration.
Thank you, Glori.

[Tonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The words I have for this book cannot come close to how I truly feel. I have only heard of this book as of recently through a family member. Not only is it based on actual events, my hometown but also a relative of mine. I am beyond proud of you telling your story. While reading the words on the paper I found myself having the feelings of how the author was portraying her story. My emotions ranged from feeling saddened, frightened,alone, abandoned, rejected, unloved and most of all unworthy for the adults in her life to care enough to speak up and shield her. I cried with happiness at how you persevered and yes you are quite driven like your father and look at you now... accomplishments that many would only wish they had the strength to see through and I’m glad that you did. Noone should be silenced/hushed or pretend that all is well. Continue telling your story!!! Thank you for being strong for so many that are not.