I was married to AB, and we have a daughter with severe disabilities. From the outside, our life may have looked normal. But behind closed doors, I was living in constant fear.
From the beginning of our marriage, I was emotionally and psychologically abused, not just by my husband, but also by his mother. I was treated like a servant in my own home. I was the only one caring for our daughter, managing the house, cooking, cleaning, everything. But I was never thanked or supported. I wasn’t even allowed to have money or go out on my own. I felt invisible. Powerless.
Over time, the abuse got worse. My husband became more controlling and started using drugs. I remember one terrifying day when he left drugs lying around the house. Our daughter, who has complex needs, nearly ingested them. I caught her just in time. I still shake when I think about what could’ve happened.
When I confronted him about how he was neglecting her, he threatened to kill me with his car. That wasn’t the first time he’d made threats, but this time, I believed he might do it.
I was completely isolated. I didn’t speak English well, I had no friends, no money, and no one to turn to. I didn’t think anyone would believe me. But then, a friend quietly gave me a number, KMEWO.
Calling them changed my life.
They listened. They believed me. And they acted quickly. KMEWO helped me report everything to the police, and that same day, they got me and my daughter to safety. It was the first time in years I could breathe.
Even after we left, the threats continued. My husband’s mother started harassing my family. They even tried to cancel my phone so I couldn’t speak to anyone. Then, in a desperate attempt to take my daughter from me, my husband made false claims that I was going to harm her.
He even said I’d been through FGM and was planning to do the same to our child, none of it was true.
It was overwhelming. But KMEWO stood by me. They helped me with everything, from emergency housing and social services, to applying for benefits and speaking with lawyers. They helped me get legal protection, immigration advice, and most importantly, emotional support.
There were so many moments I felt broken. But through all the pain, KMEWO reminded me that I wasn’t alone. They reminded me I was strong.
Since then, I’ve started rebuilding my life. I’m now studying ESOL courses through KMEWO, which is helping me build my confidence and independence. I’ve also taken part in their awareness-raising groups and have been receiving counselling in my own language. These steps have helped me begin to heal and look forward to the future.
Today, I am safe. My daughter is safe. I am working toward a new life, one where fear no longer controls me. It’s not easy, but I’m healing.
I want other women to know even when it feels like there’s no way out, there is help. You can survive. And you will find your voice again.