Domestic violence survivor shares her 27-year story of abuse, escape and recovery

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- “I lived in domestic violence for 27 years. I never thought there was another life beyond that.”

Those are the words of a woman named Connie who broke free from her abusive ex-husband after years of abuse.

For Connie,  a survivor, she lives to tell the tale. Connie requested that her last name not be used. Through her experiences, she has the goal of being an advocate for those who are having similar struggles.

“My goal in life has been to make a difference. I was given a chance by living to change things,” Connie said.

The change could affect both men and women impacted by domestic violence.

Connie said the signs of the violence aren’t often visible. Rather, they leave emotional scars. Domestic violence can also affect families with children, which is where the Family Enrichment Center steps in.

“Unfortunately, a lot of the children and families that we serve experience violence in the home. Children are sometimes inadvertently affected. The abuse may not be happening to them personally, but when a child witnesses domestic violence, they have some effects of that. They don’t get off scot free,” said director of programs of the Family Enrichment Center Lynn Hulsey.

While simply walking away from an abusive relationship might seem easy, Connie said it’s not that simple, which is why more people don’t take that route.

“Your life is in more danger. The public’s opinion is, ‘well why didn’t you leave in the first place?” You’re criticized, but you do what you have to do to survive,” Connie said.

Many domestic violence homicides occur when a victim is attempting to leave the abuser.

In addition to resources like the Barren River Area Safe Space, Connie said loved ones can prevent domestic violence simply by showing support.

“The best thing a person can do is just to be there as a shoulder to give that person support. I’ve had a lot of people in the past 22 years who have supported me,” Connie said.