Valerie's Story
I grew up watching my father abuse my mother but I always dreamed of getting married and having children. Clint was charming, handsome and rode a Harley.
Early in the relationship, he started to control who I hung out with and what I wore. But I was in love and, at first, I didn’t notice the controlling behavior. But I never imagined the abuse my children and I would endure. It included beatings, strangulation, and punching, but he was always careful not to leave proof.
I began documenting the abuse, and gave it to a neighbor, telling them that if anything happened, they should give it to the police.
One night, he threatened me with a knife. I told the school of the abuse after one of the kids starting acting out.
They referred me to Journey. We moved into the shelter, and also took advantage of the Justice System Advocacy Program, Support Groups and Therapy. We continued to use Journey services long after we left the Shelter.
“We continued to use Journey services long after we left the Shelter.”