For months, I have been trying to legally and safely remove myself from a marriage that has caused me significant emotional, psychological, and financial harm. This is my third attempt to leave, and each time I have faced manipulation, threats, false promises, and efforts to portray himself as the victim in order to keep me trapped.

When I finally found the strength to leave for the last time,I was subjected to retaliation and fear-based tactics, including false allegations that resulted in a temporary restraining order against me — which was later dismissed in court due to insufficient evidence.

On December 23rd, I filed for divorce and since then, the situation escalated. I have continued to experience conduct that I perceive as intimidating, harassing, and retaliatory, including my estranged husband choosing to move directly to a building across from my residence, despite previously claiming to fear me.

I want to be clear: I am not seeking revenge, attention, or sympathy. My only goal is to be fully divorced, protected, and able to move forward with my life safely.

Unfortunately, the financial cost of doing the right thing has been overwhelming. I have exhausted a significant portion of my savings paying legal fees simply to defend myself against false claims and to continue the divorce process. Due to the current economy and a downturn in my work and business opportunities, I am doing everything I can — but I am running out of options.

If I cannot pay my outstanding legal balance, my attorneys will be forced to withdraw, leaving me vulnerable and potentially having to start over with significant debt. The funds raised here will go directly toward:

Ongoing divorce legal fees

Protective legal measures

Basic stability while I navigate this process safely

This pattern of behavior is not isolated. There is documented history involving the same actions he is doing to me with others in the past, reinforcing that what I am experiencing is part of a broader pattern, not a one-time conflict.

Unfortunately, he will not stop.

I know many people quietly endure situations like this. Law enforcement can only do so much. The legal system moves slowly. And too often, people — especially women — are left to shoulder the cost of their own protection.

To those who have checked in on me, offered support, listened, or encouraged me: thank you. Your kindness has meant more than you know. I am doing everything within my power to protect myself and those around me, and asking for help here is not easy — but it is necessary.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this also helps. I am deeply grateful for every form of support.

Thank you for helping me close this chapter and move toward safety, peace, and freedom.

Domestic Abuse & Leaving a Relationship Statistics:

-1 in 3 women experience physical violence, stalking, or sexual violence by an intimate partner (CDC).

-The most dangerous time for a victim is when they attempt to leave or shortly after leaving.

-75% of domestic violence–related homicides occur after separation or during divorce proceedings (National Domestic Violence Hotline).

-The average contested divorce in the U.S. costs $15,000–$30,000+.

-High-conflict divorces involving false allegations or protective orders often exceed $40,000–$100,000 in legal costs.

-Women are 5 times more likely to be killed by an intimate partner when the abuser has engaged in stalking behaviors.

-On average, over 3 women per day are killed by a current or former intimate partner in the U.S