Sheldon Kennedy smiled as he received a Diamond Jubilee Medal from Lt-Governor Donald Ethell and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.  The former NHL player was recognized for his commitment to raising awareness for abused children.  I believe Kennedy would have given the medal back in a heartbeat if it meant he could undo the past.  Kennedy has become an advocate for young victims because he was one of them.  His abuser? His hockey coach Graham James.  A man he had trusted. A man who preyed on young boys with big dreams.  It's ironic that on the same day Kennedy is honoured, Jerry Sandusky is sentenced to 30 years in jail for sexually abusing 10 boys over a 15 year period. Both Graham James and Jerry Sandusky have never accepted responsibility for their crimes.  James has said he believed he was in a caring relationship with his victims.  Sandusky has maintained his innocence, saying he has only had sex with his wife.  Abusers are like that, they'll find any way to justify their actions.  The Graham James and Jerry Sandusky's of the world have robbed their victims of their childhood, but survivors like Sheldon Kennedy have proven they can't rob them of their voice.