My name is Christina, and I am asking for help because I am afraid for my life.

For thirteen years, I endured abuse at the hands of my husband. The abuse began when I was seven months pregnant with our son, when he pushed me from behind and I fell onto my stomach. From that moment forward, my life became controlled by fear, intimidation, and violence.

The abuse did not stop—it escalated. In 2015, he hit me in the face so hard my nose bled, then rushed me away so no one would see. Over the years, the violence grew worse, including repeated strangulation in 2015, 2020, 2022, and many times after that. I lived in constant fear of what would happen next.

He controlled every part of my life—my money, my job, my vehicle, and even my movements. I was financially dependent on him for fourteen years. When I was allowed to work, he controlled when, where, and how much I could work, and demanded access to my income. Even while working, I was only bringing in $500–$800 every two weeks, which made it impossible to save. I have no savings.

I was not just his wife—I was also his caretaker, and I felt trapped.

On February 4, 2026, the violence became life-threatening. He assaulted and strangled me until my vision went black and my body gave out. I truly believed I was going to die. He then threatened me with a knife and told me he would kill me and himself, and that plans had already been made for our son. I believed him.

I only survived because I called 911. When police intervened, they found a knife in the vehicle, and my dash camera had been unplugged. I do not believe I would have made it home alive if law enforcement had not intervened.

Today, I live in constant fear. I struggle to sleep. I am hypervigilant and afraid when someone walks up behind me or the dog barks. I am actively utilizing every resource available—victim advocacy, housing assistance, legal aid—but nothing happens quickly, and time is something I don’t have.

Right now, my immediate goal is to secure housing for my son and I so we can begin rebuilding our lives. I will need to break our current lease, but I am hoping to remain here through the month of March so I can plan safely and not be forced to leave our belongings behind.

I am asking for help to raise $10,000, which will be used as follows:

• $1,000 – March rent is $2,200 (I have already secured $1,200 toward this)

• $5,000 – First month, last month, and security deposit for a new, safe apartment

• $3,000 – Two months of rent so I can focus on working and saving to become financially independent

• $1,000 – Assistance securing a lawyer to begin the divorce process

Any additional funds raised will go directly toward retaining an attorney to help me with my divorce and protect my future.

I never imagined asking for help like this. I’ve always been the one caring for others. But right now, I need help to keep myself safe and give my child and I the chance to live without fear.

Even a small donation makes a difference. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this page. Your support gives us hope—and time—to rebuild.

With gratitude,

Christina

I want my son to grow up knowing what safety feels like. I want him to see his mother strong, alive, and free. Your kindness can help make that possible.