I am a survivor. I finally escaped from years of mental & physical abuse. I let my abuser control everything I did (even telling me when I could use the restroom or sleep, at times). He somehow did it without me even realizing when it first began happening, until it went far beyond. I was already hurting physically and emotionally from a previous relationship, medical issues, and my career coming to a halt due to an active shooter at the facility I worked for - that permanently closed. I've been in between homelessness and staying at various friends for the past two years, whenever I could escape my abuser. He keeps getting arrested for his crimes (including kidnapping, assault, domestic violence), but they keep letting him right back out on bond until the next time. After this last time and his constant threats, I believe I am finally free to start living my life again! I'm actually a Social Worker and have counseled many women that were victims. I never dreamed I would be one of them, and I realize, now, how there is no one way of understanding what each victim experiences. Now, I'm starting over....I have lost everything that I worked for my whole life, however, I did manage to save most of my family photos (though I endured more abuse in doing so...But I saved them)! I am trying to get a vehicle, a home, and simple basic necessities. I requested $5000 but every little bit will definitely be appreciated more than I can express.... especially just to give me a little Hope back in my life and heart again! ❤️