As a survivor of a brutal attack by the Yorkshire Ripper, this book
gives fresh insight into the consequences of being labeled a victim of
this notorious serial killer.
Mo Lea was followed home and attacked by Peter Sutcliffe, who hit her
over the head repeatedly with a hammer. She was stabbed with a
screwdriver leaving her with life threatening injuries. The book reveals
how Mo has wrestled with the past, struggling to come to terms with the
well-trodden, morbid narrative. She has written a new, fresh perspective
for the present day.
Her writing offers an alternative account, one which repositions her as
a survivor with a success story. While sympathy has its place for the
victims, this book gives insight into processes of recovery and success.
Mo had no control over unwanted media interventions. Sometimes the
Ripper story would appear on the morning news while she was getting
ready to go to work. She learnt to contain her anxiety but she could
neither predict or escape these uncomfortable moments that reminded her
of her past trauma.
Mo Lea's art practice has been an important factor in her life. She has
been fortunate to use this as an outlet to explore her pain, anger,
suffering and recovery.
After years of personal growth and recovery, a short film was made of Mo
Lea creating a drawing from the iconic photograph of the man who had
tried to take her life. She is filmed ripping up the Ripper. She is
filmed tearing up the portrait that she had so carefully drawn,
rendering him as disposable as a piece of litter. The film shows how Mo
turned her story around, making Sutcliffe the victim and herself, the
triumphant survivor.
Mo had finally found a way of stepping out of the frame. She no longer
felt Iike running away. The illustrations contained within describe
better than any words, her journey from tragic despair to calmness and
acceptance. By writing this book Mo Lea has found a way to reclaim her
story.
