I loved her. But I finally realized the relationship had become abusive and the best thing for me to do was get out now. I was finishing up a semester of school, and decided to transfer to another university and leave town. I thought moving would be the best way for me to start over and heal from the abuse and heart break.
I found a great apartment and had a glimmer of hope for my fresh start. Until she found me. I loved her still. She convinced me things would be different. I believed her. I wanted this to work so badly, but it wasn’t long before the abusive behaviors started again. The emotional abuse. Then the physical assaults. I told her I would not allow myself to be treated that way, especially by someone who says they love me, and that our relationship was over.
She told me that if I left again that she would kill me. I felt so hopeless. Scared. Betrayed. I started seeking legal help, and honestly felt even more scared and unsure with the judicial process. I got a phone call one day from an Advocate at the DVSA Center. She told me about the services they provide and told me that she would be happy to assist me with an seeking a legal Order of Protection.
I cried so many tears of relief. For the first time in months I felt my body relax. The thought of having to go through the court and legal processes alone was consuming my thoughts, causing extreme anxiety – I even contemplated going back to her to avoid this process by myself. I am so grateful for the constant support of my advocate and the attorney.
I was able to get the legal Order of Protection in place. My ex finally left town and I have been able to start healing, focus on finishing school, and enjoying my life again.
