In April 2020, I found myself hopeless, homeless, afraid, and ashamed as a result of domestic violence. I felt very alone, I knew hardly no one in Houston, and at the time, didn’t have enough money to leave the home I shared with my partner, although he was abusive. In the middle of the pandemic, the abuse I’d experienced became worse. As a result, I fled my home and went to the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) for nearly three months. I thank my Creator every day for the services I received at HAWC.

All of the resources I received at HAWC (e.g., shelter, food, legal assistance, etc.) were absolutely awesome and I’m eternally gratefully. However, the individual and group therapy I received at the shelter changed my life, for the rest of my life. I began to understand ‘why’ I accepted abuse. I learned skills that empowered me and has helped me navigate life after making the decision to walk away and stay away from the abusive relationship. I am no longer ashamed to share that I coexist with mental health diagnoses, for which, I have a mental health plan that includes ongoing therapy.

I am now committed to raising awareness around domestic and intimate partner violence and removing the stigma of mental health.

O yeah, I am happy to report that I serve on the Board of Director’s for the very shelter that changed my life (#GOHAWC), and I NOW live an abuse free life, full of joy, peace, hope and happiness, which I know is what I’ve always deserved! And now I share my story with hope and prayer that others know they are deserving of an abuse free life full of joy, peace, hope and happiness too!