My Journey Home: Reuniting with My Son
After surviving eight years of domestic abuse, I made the difficult decision to flee to Wisconsin a year ago to protect myself and begin healing. The abuse I endured was comprehensive and devastating—physical violence, emotional manipulation, financial control, and coercive isolation that gradually stripped away my independence, support systems, and sense of self.
In the final months before my escape, the situation escalated dangerously. My abuser destroyed my belongings—clothes, personal items, anything of value—as a means of control and punishment. There was even an attempt on my life that made it clear I needed to leave immediately to survive. When I finally found the courage and opportunity to flee, I had nothing but the clothes on my back and the desperate hope for safety.
The hardest part of my escape was leaving behind my precious 6-year-old son, who has been staying with his grandmother while I worked to establish safety and stability. Every day of separation has been painful, but I knew I needed to heal and create a foundation for us before I could provide him the home he deserves.
On March 25th, my former partner passed away unexpectedly. My son now needs me more than ever as he processes this loss, and I'm determined to return to Arkansas to be with him and create a safe, stable home where we can heal together.
Starting over has been challenging but necessary. While I've been working diligently to rebuild my life and independence, domestic abuse survivors often face tremendous financial hurdles. The economic abuse I experienced left me with damaged credit, limited savings, and few resources. Currently, I don't have the financial means needed to:
- Cover moving expenses from Wisconsin to Arkansas
- Put down a deposit and first month's rent on a safe place for us to live
- Purchase essential household items and necessities for my son
- Cover initial transportation costs as I reestablish employment
- Provide stability during this transition period
Your support would be life-changing for us. Any contribution, no matter the size, represents not just financial assistance but also belief in our future and acknowledgment of our journey. All funds raised will go directly toward reuniting me with my son and establishing our new beginning together.
This fundraiser represents hope—hope that my son and I can heal from our trauma, build new memories, and create the safe, loving home that we both deserve. Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and for helping us rebuild our lives together.
