Brooke Skillings never thought her relationship of over 6 years would end the way it did on January 30th. Fighting for consciousness as she called 911 desperate for safety from her Fiance, the man sworn to protect her.
Years of mental and emotional abuse, manipulation, secrecy and lies finally culminated in a violent physical attack, leaving scars -visable as well as not- that may never heal.
Whether youre a survivor or just know one, youre well aware that leaving can be the hardest part for any victim. It requires a huge leap of faith, tremendous courage and most importantly- support from family and friends. Once the bruises fade and youve dusted yourself off there remains the immense challenge of starting over.
Throughout the better half of a decade, Brooke's abuser manipulated her into a position of servitude and financial dependence. Although she maintains her own employment, he was the main breadwinner and now she is left with the full financial responsibility of an entire household as he has frozen her out of their combined savings and debit accounts as well as disconnecting internet service, cell phone, etc.
While she compromised her personal pursuits to work with a prominent town figure towards a life and future he promised, he lived a secret double life that betrayed every promise.
She is left without access to her own money, keys for her own vehicle, a partner she thought she was spending the rest of her life with and maybe without a tiny bit of her confidence.
What she is left with is a home to maintain, 2 dogs, 2 cats and most importantly a 17 year old son to try to explain all of this to.
You may know Brooke from any number of Westbrook or southern Maine community events from The Rotary club to the Westbrook womens club to the town pizza challenge at the jr. high to the ribbon cutting at the new splashpad... Or maybe you were lucky enough to know her throughout your whole life, like i was. Whether youve known Brooke for 30 years or 30 minutes you know she would never ask you for help but she would ALWAYS offer it. So on her behalf we ask.
Sincerely,All Survivors