I went through domestic abuse for four years. The first year started out just more mental abuse, and then it turned physical, putting his hands on me several times. I tried to cover up the marks. I was completely embarrassed because the Fort Madison Police Department could never help me because he was never on the property when they arrived, or they could never get a hold of him. He knew how to play the game unfortunately it cost me, and my three-year-old son at the time, horrible trauma. We both still see counselors to this day because of it. My daughter who was five at the time had to call 911 while my son was begging this man to get off of me because he was going to kill me. I could not breathe and the only thing I could see was my son crying at the bottom of the steps begging this man to please not kill his mommy. I tried to get away and so many times went back because I had nowhere to go, and no help at the time. I didn’t want to tell my parents I was embarrassed enough. Two years into the relationship he told me that he was 31 years old and never had a kid and a kid would make this better. I knew that a baby would not solve anything but I did get pregnant and it only got worse. I was shoved down my apartment steps multiple times because he wanted to kill the baby inside of me that he wanted oh so badly. I was hit several times. I’ve had black eyes. I have had broken ribs. I have been choked to the point. I had passed out, waking up scared to death with both of my kids leaning over me asking if I was OK. I have never been able to really tell my story because I have been embarrassed about it. And I still have a lot of PTSD from it which makes it hard to go out in public because I fear that he’s going to pop out of nowhere. But by the grace of God, my baby made it and when she was 15 months old we were finally able to get away. The man I am with now is also my older kid's dad and he drove from Ottumwa to pick us up one night after my daughter had called him. He helped me begin my life again, get away from that man, and he helped me get the help I needed. I am so thankful for the life I have now. I have not seen this ex man in almost 4 years now, but I still fear he will come back because he has made many threats and “welfare” checks. He told me to never forget his face because he will always be around and I will forever live in fear because of that. But I have come to realize I have a man now, who will protect me and all my kids no matter what it takes. And so to all of those who are going through abuse YOU CAN get away. It takes courage and strength, but you can do it. I am amazed by these people coming together and doing something for domestic survivors. This is amazing and I feel it will help so many people.