Help Rachel Dowdens children and family

Hello, My name is Brandy Perhach, and I am Rachel Dowdens friend/boss. On Wednesday, 1/19/22, Rachel Dowden lost her life after work due to domestic violence. She left behind two beautiful children, her family, and all of her friends. During her fight with DV, she fought hard until the very end. As Rae would say, "He won the fight, but not the battle."

 

A couple of weeks ago, Rae wanted to make a go fund me to get help on getting away from her abuser, but she was scared that no one would help her or he would find out. But despite the fear, she decided to move forward & ask for help. She gathered her courage & told her story. These are her words:

 

"Hello my name is Rae. I’m a 28 year old single mother of 2; my son 3 1/2 and my daughter 1 1/2. I am also a current domestic violence victim and survivor.

 

I’ve been trying to rid my life of my abuser, whom I share a child with since February 2020 and he keeps finding ways to reinsert himself in my life. He’s been stalking and harassing me for quite some time now; included but not limited to social media and having mutual friends reach out to me. He’s also had people sent me friend requests to try to keep up with my life and my whereabouts that way as well. All of this to convince me to meet up with him or talk to him. I have made it abundantly clear to him multiple times that I want nothing to do with him nor do I want a relationship with him.

 

He’s broken into my current house twice. The first time he broke in he stole several things including my now 2 month old puppy. The second time he broke in he brought a friend along and they were in my house waiting for me to get home from work. This time not only did he steal more things from me he also assaulted me, held me at gun point, and pistol whipped me in the back of my head twice. I had to jump off my 3rd floor deck to escape and run for help because he took my phone.

 

I’ve made several police reports regarding the abuse, threats, and break ins, however since he’s on the run the police have not found him yet. Ever since February 2020 when CYF brought into my life (my son suffered a fractured femur while in my abusers care) I have been trying to put my life back together and leave him in the past. I even have a PFA on him but that does not effect him or make him stay away and leave me alone. I’d like to make this the last time I have to rebuild my life as a result of him. I have to move once again, pay hospital and doctor bills, lawyer fees and more. Anything you can give or help with is greatly appreciated so I can get back on my feet and be reunited with my babies."

 

 

As you can see, Rae was trying and doing everything she could to get away from her abuser and start a new life for her and her babies. Rae was more than a DV victim; She was a daughter, a mother, a sister, a friend. We lost a beautiful soul who was full of love and laughter. Someone who had dreams and who wouldn't stop no matter what life threw in her. She was a strong, hardworking, and dedicated person. We do not want her fight or story to be forgotten. Please help us take care of her children and family during this difficult time, as she would have helped you if you needed it.

 

 

"Something has to change. This system has to change. Enough isn’t being done to protect victims of domestic violence; it’s heartbreaking, it’s devastating. They shouldn’t have to be harmed to become a priority. Y’all have no idea how many people there are suffering in silence out of fear. Y’all have no idea the mental & emotional toll it takes on them. And it’s not easy as “just leave” because that’s when they’re the most in danger. And my sister is yet another sad example of that. She finally had the courage to leave, finally put her foot down & this is what happened. If you know someone who’s a victim of domestic abuse, please support them. No matter what, no matter how many times they go back. Each time they call you be there for them. Be their strength when they don’t feel strong or brave enough. Yes, it can be stressful, but I promise you’d rather that than lose them. Wrap your arms around them & protect them at all costs." - Naomi, Rachels Sister