This is Dawn's Story

I had no idea that life with someone, I thought was the right man, could deteriorate so seriously.

It started out with little things. I didn’t make his lunch right. There was a mess in the kitchen. Later when I went to the store for him, I had a time limit. Soon, he’d be calling my cell phone to find out if I was with another man. He became very jealous, calling me names and using put-downs.

His threats escalated into such violence that I’d have been killed if my 911 call had not gone through before he tore the phone apart. My black eyes, split lips and extensive bruising brought the nurse to tears. My friend, who brought me from the hospital, was horrified by my injuries.

Later, the Women’s Shelter called to tell me of a Self-defense class for women at Pretty Woman Fitness. They told me Deb Sammit, the owner, was the right person to help me. At first I felt embarrassed, ashamed, and apprehensive about going due to all my bruises and doubts about myself. But being assured that other women from the shelter, and with various reasons would be there, I went with a friend to Deb’s Self-Defense classes. I’m so glad I did.

Debbie helped us all to feel comfortable & has been helping me to regain the confidence I had lost.

With ongoing help from various support groups, and especially Debbie at Pretty Woman Fitness, I am rebuilding my self esteem & my life.

Dawn