Hi friends,

This is not easy to write — and definitely not something I ever imagined myself having to do — but after speaking with my therapist and some people I trust, I was encouraged to open up and ask for help.

Over the past several months, I’ve been dealing with ongoing emotional abuse — including verbal harassment, stalking, intimidation, manipulation, and attempts to control or isolate me. I’ve taken steps to protect myself and my daughter, including filing for legal protection and working with the police, but the emotional toll and financial strain have been overwhelming.

The good news is I’ve found a strong, compassionate female attorney who is ready to help — someone who truly gets it and offers the most reasonable rates I’ve found. Her retainer is $2,400, which covers the initial legal filing and service fees. I’ve already saved a few hundred, but I’m still responsible for nearly all the household bills on my own while trying to hold everything together. He contributes to a small portion, but the weight of everything else — utilities, groceries, daily expenses, safety measures — is still fully on me.

All I want is peace. Safety. Stability for me and my daughter. And right now, I’m asking for help getting there.

If you have the capacity to donate — whether it’s $5 or $50 — I will be endlessly grateful. Every bit helps me take another step toward freedom and safety. Even if you can’t give financially, sharing this or sending a kind word of encouragement means more than you know.

If anyone also has leads on a safe, affordable rental (2 bedrooms, pet-friendly for two large dogs) in the Metro Detroit area, please feel free to message me privately. That part is coming next.

Thank you for holding space for me right now. Truly. It’s not easy to be vulnerable, but I know I’m not alone.

With love,

Leslie