The Silver Lining: The Intersection of Sexual Assault and Anxiety Through the World of Gymnastics

The Silver Lining: The Intersection of Sexual Assault and Anxiety Through the World of Gymnastics explores the intricacies of the silver medal, the silver between the black and white of life and best of all, the silver lining. In this book, author Serena Pergola shares stories of trauma and challenges and explains how she leveraged a daunting mental health journey, a solid foundation in her support systems and unexpected optimism to become stronger than ever before.

Discover how the culture of gymnastics influenced her experiences both inside and outside of the gym and hear stories of people as high profile as Aly Raisman to an anonymous Larry Nassar survivor, and one much closer to home, Serena’s friend Brooke.

Serena is sharing her story with the world to inspire others to share their stories and to build a community of support and empowerment. By welcoming you into her most intimate stories and inviting you to follow her on her journey of discovering her silver lining, she hopes that you can find your silver lining, too.

All proceeds from The Silver Lining will be donated to the Athlete Assistance Fund, an independent, not-for-profit that makes counseling services available to any current or former USA Gymnastics member gymnast who suffered sexual abuse within the sport of gymnastics. It confidentially connects athletes to skilled healthcare providers for appropriate treatment through an independent third-party organization. The Athlete Assistance Fund is not affiliated with USA Gymnastics. This is an organization Serena fully supports as she personally spoke to Tina Ferriola, the Board Chair, who wholeheartedly believes that education is a huge factor in the awareness and prevention of sexual assault.

“This has the opportunity to make a difference bigger than just ourselves. Let’s grow, let’s make change, let’s support, let’s empower, let’s do this!” -Serena Pergola