Danielle Martin

In 2006, I found myself trapped in an abusive relationship with a man who held me hostage and abused me daily. The years of violence left me with severe facial injuries and the loss of my teeth. He took away my self-esteem, my sense of self-worth, and my confidence. Breaking free from him was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but with the help of God and my emotional support team, I am slowly putting myself back together. The journey has been a roller coaster of highs and lows, and it’s still difficult for me to find a job or feel comfortable in public. For almost four months, I have been part of Standing in the Gap Ministries in Warrensburg, Missouri. This experience has totally changed my life for the better and brought me closer to God. It’s one of the best choices I’ve ever made, and I am grateful every day for the support and spiritual growth I’ve found here. Not having teeth has made it hard for me to speak, eat, and even interact with others. I’ve struggled to work because I feel self-conscious, and it’s embarrassing when people can’t understand me or ask me to repeat myself. Even simple things like eating are a challenge. My dream is to one day help others escape abusive relationships and maybe even open a recovery home, but right now, it’s hard to imagine doing anything in public without my smile. I am raising funds to get dentures so I can eat, speak, and feel like myself again. This would give me back my self-worth and confidence, and help me move forward with my life and my dreams. Your support would mean the world to me—it would truly change my whole life. Thank you for considering helping me on this journey.