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 At the beginning of their relationship, Kari* thought her husband’s obsessive behavior was just his way of showing affection. But, like most abusers, he was merely preying on his victim - breaking her down physically and emotionally.
In their marriage Kari was treated like a child. She wasn’t allowed to go anywhere without permission, and when she was allowed to go out, she had a curfew and had to frequently call to check in with her husband. She wasn’t even allowed to have the keys to her own home. The mental abuse she suffered was worse than any physical abuse ever could be. He put her down and belittled her accomplishments and finally, after 10 years, their marriage ended.
Luckily, through a friend, Kari discovered Catholic Charities. There, she worked closely with a counselor who specializes in domestic violence. It was the first time she had spoken to anyone about what she had endured. She began to recognize that what she experienced was indeed domestic violence and that it was not her fault.
In addition to having a counselor, she participated in the Journey Forward Resiliency Enhancement Program with her son. The program allows mothers and their children who were affected by domestic abuse to come together to heal from the trauma of domestic violence, participate in creative arts, and learn the skills necessary to interrupt the intergenerational cycle of abuse. After completing the program the families have an option to attend a weekend camping experience to create new memories and traditions.
“It is an indescribable feeling to know that someone I don’t really even know can care so much to help me rebuild and change my life forever and I am very thankful,” said Kari. “I may carry the scars of the abuse I suffered, but I know now I can heal properly with the help I have received at Catholic Charities.”
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