Hello. My name is Nina, and I don't even know where to begin. This all started over a TikTok video I posted out of desperation and a pure feeling of exhaustion. My entire life as long as I can remember I have been treated like I was not a person. Like I don't matter, and it was by the people that were supposed to protect me. After years of staying silent with the fear of what will happen to me if I speak up, here I am. It is taking a lot of courage for me, even as I write this.

Before I even knew what was going on, before I was able to stand up for myself, I was treated like a punching bag and like a doll. I was treated like trash. Hit, pushed, punched, smacked. Called horrible, disgusting names that no child should be ever called. The clothes would get ripped off of my back when I would try to run away. Over a simple disagreement I would be dragged on the floor across the room by my hair, ripping chunks out in the process. Items such as books, remotes, phones, furniture, and chairs would be thrown at me from across the room when I would try to hide and get away from her wrath. Then after, I was treated like "gold" and like nothing happened. Never a follow up conversation. It was a constant battle and physiological warfare with my own parents.

When I turned 18, I tried to get away. I was young, scared, and desperate for a family. I was roped back in with different promises, the main one being that things would be different. I am now in the situation I am currently in.

I am 22 years old. I am a full-time college student with one year left before I graduate. I planned to move out immediately after I graduate. But due to the current circumstances becoming too toxic, mentally and physically draining, I have started this GoFundMe. Rent in the area I live in is extremely high. I have three pets. My dog Max, the orange cat in the picture Dilly, and my cat Lincoln. They are the only things in my life besides a few other people that have made going forward not as difficult. Rehoming my pets or leaving without them isn't an option. I made a commitment when I adopted them, and I will never leave them or give them up for anything. For them, the situation is perfect. They are given autonomy, love, and they have plenty of space to play and explore. What I want for them is to always have the best.

Due to me being a full-time college student and also trying to maintain enough hours at work, it is extremely difficult. I have started this GoFundMe to help provide myself and my babies with the funds to move. To live in a safe, healthy place, with the basic necessities as I take the steps towards my independence and healing. Every dollar raised will be another step towards a new life that I can be proud of. A life that makes me want to wake up and that doesn't cause me stress and trauma. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story helps tremendously by spreading the word. It gives others hope, reassurance, and validation that they are not crazy. This behavior from someone who is supposed to love you and always have your best interest at heart, IS NOT OKAY. You deserve more, you deserve better, you are seen, and most importantly, you are BELIEVED.

Thank you for listening and taking the time. I appreciate it more than you know.

With gratitude and hope,

Nina Irani