As a Smith College alumna, I never thought I would find myself in a financially abusive relationship. Watching numerous stories in the news recently about
various types of abuse, I finally admitted to myself that what I am experiencing is abuse. I'm not on Twitter, but have heard about
#whyistayed. I can't stay in my current situation, and need help to get out. I have a Facebook page; however, I'm terrified of my abuser (who I live with). I've started a campaign on gofundme.com, where I explained my situation as follows:
I'm looking for a second chance at life. I live with my ex-boyfriend, and can't afford to move out, let alone pay to break my lease. I am unemployed, and don't receive any money from the government. I need help to remove myself from this toxic, financially abusive relationship. My ex told me that I had to move my things into the guest room, because I couldn't pay what he thought was fair to stay in the master bedroom. He makes over $120,000 a year, and has never - even when we were dating - supported me even a little bit. He's gone so far as to itemize grocery bills and demand I pay him for the food I eat. I know I have skills and talents to share with the world, but I feel too trapped and scared to try. I have very little self-esteem left, and can barely afford my anti-depressant. I would use any money raised to start from square one. I would add to my business casual wardrobe for job interviews. Donations would allow me to make a clean break from this apartment and situation. It would give me the opportunity to flatten the hurdles between me and a happy, healthy life.
I have been unemployed since June, and don't qualify for state aid. I have been pounding the pavement, and doing everything in my power to find a job. I've had up to three interviews with a company (more than once), only to get a form letter telling me that they've chosen to move forward with another candidate. I have been dealing with depression, and the effects of ECT. I am hoping there is a way to promote my campaign without revealing personal information about
myself, for fear of retribution from my abuser. If you need to verify information, I would be more than happy to speak with you - as long as I know it won't be made public. My ex is out of town, and only with him gone have I found the courage to write this and admit what's really happening. Please help me.
Post Edited By Moderator (getting by) : 11/24/2014 7:16:54 PM (GMT-7)