My name is maddy , and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write.

For a couple years, I was trapped in an abusive relationship. I left many times, but somehow I always went back—hoping, praying things would get better. They never did. Instead, the cycle of fear, manipulation, violence and pain only grew stronger.

The moment that changed everything was when he almost hurt my little girl. In that instant, I knew I couldn’t risk her safety—or mine—ever again. I had to break the cycle for good. I had to choose freedom. As of now my abuser is in jail , so I am trying to get things done while we are safe.

Right now, my daughter and I (I am currently pregnant with my second) are living with my parents. They have been incredibly supportive, and I am so grateful for the love and safety they’ve given us. As much as I appreciate their support, I want to do better for myself and my daughters. I want to be able to stand on my own two feet and create a safe, stable home for us in the future. But the reality is, things are very expensive—legal fees, the costs of the divorce. It’s more than we can manage on our own, and the financial strain is heavy.

Asking for help is incredibly hard for me, but I can’t do this alone. If you are able to donate, no matter how small the amount, it will go directly toward my divorce and rebuilding our lives from the ground up. Your support would mean the world to us.

Thank you for reading, for sharing, and for helping me take this step toward healing and freedom. You are giving my daughters and me the chance at a new beginning—a life where they can continue to grow up feeling safe, loved, and free from fear.