PUBLISHED 6:23 PM ET Jul. 28, 2021 PUBLISHED 6:23 PM EDT Jul. 28, 2021 SHARE Tom Andriola is an abuse survivor who knows firsthand how difficult it is to come forward. "Part of the problem with the dynamics of sexual assault is it's fear driven," Andriola said. "Survivors often fear for their lives and their livelihoods. For that reason, it takes them years and years and years just to come forward, even to their closest family and friends." Advocates for victims and survivors are making a final push in the coming weeks as the ability to file a legal claim under the Child Victims Act is set to close on August 14. The measure signed into law two years ago makes it easier for childhood abuse victims and survivors to file lawsuits, often against the powerful institutions that may have turned a blind eye at the time.