Jelaina’s Story
As I tried to get away, we struggled out of his room. He threw me onto the living room couch where he put his hands on my throat, screaming at me with his face mere inches from mine. That night, his friend took me home and slept on the floor of my room to make sure my boyfriend wouldn’t try to bust in and continue the assault.
A Letter from BTSADV CEO: COVID-19 Update
Dear BTSADV Community, First and foremost, we at Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence (BTSADV) extend our heartfelt wishes that you and your families are as well as can be expected during this national emergency surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our hearts especially go out to anyone directly impacted by the virus and the selfless healthcare […]
A Patriotic Love
Survivor Story: She Survived an Assault That Required Reconstructive Surgery
Submitted by: *Patricia, Survivor Children who grow up in homes with domestic violence are at increased risk of abuse and neglect. Additionally, the on-going trauma in the home extensively affects the children’s mental and physical health. Victims often report that leaving an abuser or seeking out safer living arrangements is heavily influenced by a need […]
Survivor Story: I Was Forced to Give Up My Pets When I Left
Written by: Kenna, Survivor Many survivors face the heartbreaking decision of leaving an abuser or staying because they fear for their pets’ safety. Increasing numbers of shelters and cooperating agencies are expanding services for victims in crisis that include sheltering pets. Unfortunately, these programs are still not available in many areas, and pets are often […]
Survivor Story: She Survived an Attack That Left Her Fearing for Her Life
Submitted by: Nicole, Survivor Gaslighting is a tactic that abusers use to manipulate their victims and cause them to doubt their perception of reality. This enables the abuser to gain and keep control over their victim, who will no longer be able to trust their objectivity but will also, despite all evidence to the contrary, […]