I have recently escaped from a violent and emotionally abusive marriage. I am grateful to have been able to take my 13 year old son with me. We left with the clothes on our backs and little else. I knew leaving would mean uncertainty and financial struggle, living out of my vehicle and bouncing from place to place.

However, I was willing to face the battles ahead of me in order to end the abuse, manipulation and constant worry for me and my son's lives. I had tried many times to leave, but my fear had prevented me from doing so. Once my husband threatened me and my son's lives, my survival and protection instincts drove me ahead. I've chosen to remain anonymous for our safety.

Women's shelters offered little to no help, unfortunately having a 13 year old son meant he couldn't stay at the shelter with me and the list of women seeking help was quite long. The neighbors in my community have come together to help me furnish an apartment for me and my son. I am forever grateful for their aid, as that allowed me to focus on rebuilding our lives.

Through working any job available to me, from uber to housekeeping to babysitting, I was able to save enough money to retain an attorney. I've filed for divorce and also hired a lawyer to look after my son's best interest during our custody battle. Attorney fees have emptied my bank account.

I have exhausted my financial resources. My credit cards are maxed out in an attempt to pay for daily living expenses and my son's needs. I don't qualify for a personal loan. My husband was very controlling, denying me access to our money  and at this point all my savings are gone.

My current situation is a daily struggle.  I am physically, emotionally and psychologically drained. I have chosen to survive... I will not throw my hands up in the air and give up. 

I am humbly asking for monetary help to pay attorney fees. They charge $350 an hour with a lot of work ahead of us. I'm not sure how long this battle will continue, but I do know that with your help I will be able to fight for me and my son's freedom. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any contribution you are able to make. I truly appreciate your support. May you and your families be blessed.