Megan’s Story

My name is Megan and I am a domestic violence survivor.

It has been ten years since I left my abuser. The decision was easier than the actual act of leaving. But I had a four-year old and a newborn. I feared for my life and for theirs. I loved them both with my whole heart and I knew that I couldn’t raise them in an abusive home. I had to get away from my abuser, But how?

For years, I was physically and emotionally abused. I sustained bruises from his punches. He monitored my every move. He isolated me from my family and friends. He ensured that I was financially dependent on him. He exerted control and power over me. Control and power are an abuser’s mantra.

I felt hopeless and afraid. My self-esteem plummeted the longer I stayed with him. I lost any dignity that I had. And one night when I was at the breaking point, I called the hotline and started individual counseling at CAWC. I attended a survivor’s support group and met others like me, others who endured horrific abuse.

Because of my CAWC counselor and the domestic violence survivors in my group, I found the courage to leave my abuser.

Coming to CAWC for help was the best decision that I ever made.

It wasn’t easy. I left with two small children and not much more. But when punches got too close to my children, I knew that I had to move forward and escape a terrible life.

Ten years later, he still harasses and threatens me. But because of what I learned at CAWC, I now can deflect his words and his actions.

I am engaged to a wonderful, caring man who loves my sons. I share my story with others, and I know that my words have convinced them to leave their abusers. I have a wonderful job at a well-respected company. My sons are thriving at school and in life. I’m lucky.

I tell myself that I survived for a reason – to live an amazing life, a life filled with happiness and love and not with fear – a life that I deserve.

Thank you for listening to my story. And I hope that you can support CAWC – I probably wouldn’t be here today without them.