I was in an abusive marriage for eight years. During that time, I cared for my terminally ill mother-in-law as a certified HHA/HCA for nine years, and helped care for my brother-in-law in the final two years before his passing in 2023.
While I was holding the family together and raising my daughter, my husband chose violence, addiction, and cruelty. He drank for days at a time, physically abused me, withheld food and medication, sexually assaulted me, and financially controlled me—giving me money only as a “reward” for obedience. He hurled racial slurs and accused me of sleeping with nearly every Black man in our neighborhood. He didn’t care that his dying mother was in our home, or that my child was there too.
I left a year ago and haven’t looked back. In North Carolina, you must be separated for a full year before filing for divorce. He filed first—only to gain the upper hand legally—knowing I can’t currently afford an attorney. But I’m entitled to spousal support, and I need help navigating the process.
Any support is deeply appreciated—whether it’s financial, legal resources, referrals, or simply kindness. Every bit helps as I rebuild a safer, healthier life for myself and my daughter.
