'Idol' singer's mom tells of shame, amends

The song -- and Pickler's discussions about her tough childhood --
unleashed a range of emotions for Malone. Embarrassment faded to anger,
which turned to hurt. Now, Malone is using the conversation that
Pickler started in a song to speak to strangers about her struggles.

Malone,
38, spoke last week about leaving her daughter and her efforts to
escape abusive relationships. She said she is finally free and healthy
and wants to help other victims of domestic violence. She has joined
with Interact, Wake County's domestic violence support center, to
assist victims and hopes her unwelcome fame as Pickler's estranged mom
will make them listen.

"I can't change anybody's mind or their perception of me," said
Malone, widening dark eyes that match her daughter's. "But, if I had a
dream, it would be to help one girl. To let her know that you don't
have to do it by yourself."

Pickler declined through her
publicist, Wes Vause, to comment for this story. Vause said Pickler's
song captures her thoughts best.

Pickler sings in part: "Forgiveness is such a simple word/ But it's so hard to do when you've been hurt."