A Call to Action -- Awareness of Domestic Violence -- Yes, Here in Winthrop

I am a survivor of domestic violence.  I have turned all the bottled up hatred that I should have towards those who caused harm (negative), but instead, I know I am better, and that I am able to take all  that has happened to me, my family and friends ... and make something good (positive) from it and turn it to a positive action towards helping others.  It is my hope through my "call to action," I will be able to help a community acknowledge the horror of domestic violence and its hidden presence within this beautiful community, Winthrop.  Yes, it does exist and over the years has increased.  There are many stressors and  reasons that domestic violence acts rear their ugly head.  It is not something to dismiss; it is not something to deny; it is not something to believe that it will go away on its own --- it won't !!; it is not something to ignore.  DV has to be acknowledged and once DV is acknowledge, can then there be help.  That goes for the victim, the survivor -- on an individual level as well as on a higher "community" level.  It is my hopes to speak to not only the executive and legislative bodies of Winthrop but students within our school systems.  I would like to team with the police department to assist as a spokes person whom can share my story but show the success and determination I have gained to be a great, loving, and caring person.  That no one can steal who I am; I am me and mine to have and share.  I am a survivor -- my mission is to have Winthrop be a survivor too !!