When I first walked through the doors of the Woman's Trust I was broken. More then broken, I was shattered, unrecognisable to the person that I am today. Gradually, very subtlety and over a period of many years I had lost my identity through domestic abuse. I had forgotten that I had a voice..I no longer knew the sound of my own laughter..I had been silenced.

I can honestly say that the Woman's Trust managed to put me back together again, piece by piece, as if they were putting together the mosaic of my life.

There were times when I was only able to think in blocks of a few minutes, as my life had been so devastated by the consequences of domestic abuse. However, I knew in my heart, that not only did I have to stay alive for my daughter, but also knew that I  could not let my  experience be in vain.  I had to make something good out of horrific time, to make good, and to try to prevent other women and children experiencing a similar scenario.

Every single member of staff at the Woman's Trust is understanding, compassionate and cares. For the first time in many years I felt that I had been heard, listened too and that I really mattered.I felt as if a large duvet had been tightly wrapped around me, keeping me safe and keeping me warm as I lay awake and alone at night, afraid.

Since that first day, over one year ago, my life has turned around..I am the happiest I have ever been in my life..it feels as if someone has turned the lights on in my life, has turned up the amplification as all my senses have returned to normal. I have been surprised by the sound of my own laughter and rejoice that I can now laugh until my belly hurts and tears roll down my cheeks.It may sound insanely cliched, but so true,  every morning I wake up and I feel so very grateful for the very small things in life.However, most of all, I am grateful for the amazing work of the Woman's Trust. They have handed me a  plate filled with happiness, laughter, pure and utter joy, confidence, positivity and, most importantly,  they have taken away my fear. 

I have chosen to raise money for the Woman's Trust by doing something that I have always been bit fearful of..as I wish to look fear in the face!!  I hope that the money I raise will help many other women realise their full potential without the fear of domestic abuse and be able to wake up one day feeling as happy as I do today.

 I am sincerely grateful for any money that you are able to donate..pennies or pounds..every donation will make a difference to a women's life and the work at the Woman's Trust, thank you..Rachael xx