Mind Your Mondays- Domestic Violence

Hey loves,

I know this is a pretty rough way to start the week, so I appreciate you taking the time and energy to open and read this post. This series will include some pretty heavy, yet, important and life-saving stories.

The story you’re about to read is from a friend I met after I moved to Indiana. This woman has a warm and inviting vibe; the sweetest most loving person you can ever meet. She had shared some bits and pieces of her story to me during some outings, but I never expected for her to fully share her experience for the world to see. On World Mental Health Day, she felt empowered to share her story via her Facebook page hoping that maybe someone in need of courage would feel empowered as well. After I read her story, I reached out to her and asked if she would be interested and willing to share her story through my series; she was more than happy to give me permission to not only share her post, but even gave me an email address that you all can use to contact her.

Without further ado, here is Steph's story:

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Today marks World Mental Health Day 2019. October is also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

There is no such thing as a “fairy-tale” life. Every single one of us have our own share of struggles/hardships. Sometimes people are afraid to let people know their life isn’t perfect, that sometimes it takes everything in them just to get out of bed in the morning. Many are barely able to function in their daily endeavors.

The picture on the right was me 6 1/2 years ago (2 weeks post initial injury) done by the hands of a college boyfriend. I used to be the person unable to function. Unable to leave my apartment. Unable to make new friends nor sustain the friendships I already had because I HATED myself for allowing this to happen to me. Admittedly, this was not the only occasion, but it was the last.

Be kind to others because every single person you meet is dealing with something you may have no idea about. Don’t be afraid to talk to people, there are people who will listen with an open mind, myself included.

I am proud to say I was able to overcome and get out of a toxic/abusive situation. I graduated with my bachelors in biology, I work my ass off each and every day, I own my own home, I have 2 dogs who I absolutely adore, and most days I can say I’m truly happy.

I have family and friends I wouldn’t have made it through everything without. They were there every single step of the way, even though I often pushed them away as to not burden them. I owe them everything.

Anyone that is suffering from mental illness or a victim of domestic abuse, my phone is on me 24/7. I will listen. I have a home and a spare room if you need a place to escape. There is no shame in needing help, ever.

I found my escape in spin class and wheeling my Jeep. Both of which I just discovered within last 3 years. They have helped bring back pieces of the fun, carefree girl I was 7 years ago.

If you need someone to listen, call me/text me, no matter what day or time it is. Regardless if we're super close or just met each-other in passing.

Spread love, not hate.

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Big thank you to Steph for allowing me to re-share her story. As I had stated in the beginning, you can feel free to reach out to her via email at Stephaniehunt1015@gmail.com.

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Also, if you or someone you know would like to share a story, feel free to email me at flor.carabez@gmail.com.

Successfully,

Flor E. Carabez