I am a survivor of domestic violence where I spent 4 of the longest years of my life in physical, emotional, verbal, and mental abuse. Every day is a gift because many times I thought I would not live to see another day.

While it is so much easier for the survivors to pretend it never happened, that doesn’t help others realize they are not alone and there is a way out.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. I am determined to continue being very transparent with my story as long as I am alive. I pray it not only helps others have the courage to get out but prevent others from getting involved in an abusive relationship.

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have or will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

No one sets out to be a victim of domestic violence and no one deserves it.

If you are in an abusive situation whether it is physical, verbal, mental or emotional you deserve better.

You can get out and have the life you deserve.

I have over 1700 friends on Facebook which means over 400 of you have experienced, are experiencing or will experience domestic violence.

If you are experiencing this abuse I encourage you to get help.

If you have experienced abuse, as hard as it is, I encourage you to speak out which will help others survive where they can have the life they deserve.

If more survivors speak out we can show others there is hope.

If more survivors speak out we can teach others what to watch for so they do not end up in situations like this.

If I can help you please feel free to message me.

If you are a part of a church, school or organization that would allow me to speak to girls of all ages on this issue, please contact me. By making them aware of what to watch for a lot of this can be prevented.