Survivors Share
Escaping 25 years of abuse
Two days after my marriage, my husband beat me so badly that I was in the hospital for 3 days. This continued over the years. I reached out to my family, to elders and his family. My family tried to speak to his family but we always got told that I was not a good wife. My family members kept advising me how to do better. But nothing helped. I was humiliated and put down on a regular basis. Eventually my husband and in-laws made me stop speaking with my family and if I got caught I was beaten. I was forced to stop working and stay home to look after my children and the house. I was nothing more than a maid. When I contacted AWE, they listened patiently. For the first time, I felt someone understood. They did not tell me what to do but very indirectly gave me knowledge about my rights and options I had. I finally did not feel hopeless and felt like I could decide for my life. Today, I am with my children and while I am fighting in court, I do not have to hear humiliating words and be scared of being beaten. I have peace and dignity.
Survivors Share
No consent
My husband demanded sexual relations several times in a day. If I did not comply I was beaten and he would hold back finances. Even though I earn, he had complete control of every finance and financial decision. We had two children but he continued with his demands. Within 15 years I had to have multiple abortions as he refused to use any protection. I was in constant physical pain and mentally I felt broken. AWE gave me a new life. They helped me get medical treatment, and worked with me to create a safety plan. I felt courage to call the police. Slowly things changed and I felt confidence that I can have a different and better life for me and my children. I am still with my husband, but thanks to the action plan that AWE helped me create and carry out, my husband started coming for counseling with AWE. He is still verbally abusive sometimes but I know I can handle this. He has got mental health support. One thing my husband and I agree is that AWE saved our family and my I know my life is mine now.