⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING

Images in the Gallery and this page contains detailed descriptions of domestic abuse and serious physical injuries, which some readers may find distressing.

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Why I’m dong a 10k Run to fundraise for Women’s Aid

1 in 3 women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.

My daughter, Jayda, is one of those women.

As a mother, being unable to save your child while they are subjected to extreme violence is soul‑destroying. The guilt, heartbreak, anger, and helplessness are consuming.

We are raising money for Women’s Aid in honour of Jayda’s courage — and to help other women who are currently living through abuse, fear, and isolation.

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Jayda’s Story 

Please note the below is just a summary of the abuse I endured.

I was friends with my abuser, who I will refer to as K, for several months before we got closer. At no point did I initially see him as anything more than a friend.

In October 2022, my Auntie Tuesdee passed away (image 2). We were only six years apart in age and incredibly close — more like sisters than aunt and niece. We grew up spending weekends and school holidays together, so her death completely devastated me.

During this time, K was very supportive and appeared to be there for me. Before I realised what was happening, I had fallen into a toxic and abusive relationship.

Like many abusive relationships, it started off good — until it wasn’t.

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The Abuse

In January 2023, K hit me for the first time. From that moment on, the violence became normal.

At first, the injuries were in places you couldn’t easily see.

As time went on, the beatings became worse. I was constantly blamed for “making him do it”. He threatened to kill me, and when I said I would go to the police, he then began threatening to kill my mum.

He would often come outside my family home, making me feel I had no choice but to leave with him in order to protect my family.

When the beatings were particularly bad and I was covered in bruises, I was locked in a room and not allowed to go home until the bruises had faded. I lied to my mum and family and missed many family events to hide what was happening to me.

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Escalation of Violence

The abuse escalated from slaps, kicks, and punches to far more serious violence.

I was:

Whipped with a chain (image in gallery)

Had objects thrown at me — on one occasion my head was cut open

Beaten while a knife was held against me

After one particularly brutal assault:

My forehead was protruding

My eye sockets were torn, bleeding, and badly bruised (image in gallery)

There was visible bruising around my neck from strangulation

I was not allowed to see a doctor or contact anyone for help for over a week.

Strangulation became normal, to the point that on several occasions I'd become unconscious.. Over time, he told me repeatedly that he would never get into trouble for “laying hands on me”. I felt completely trapped and believed there was nothing I could do.

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Finding the Strength to Speak Out

In August 2024, K was remanded in custody after attacking me in a shop. That moment finally gave me the safety and strength to come forward and speak to the police.

At one stage, there were over 40 charges against him. As the case moved toward trial, the charges were streamlined.

He later pleaded guilty to Grievous Bodily Harm, Threats to Kill, and several other offences.

After nearly two years of delays, the trial began on 12 January 2026. After the prosecuting barrister delivered her opening statement — showing photographs of my injuries and messages where K threatened me and the first 20mins of VRI (video recorded interview) was played— K changed his pleas to guilty to 7 of the 12 indictments.

These included:

Intentional Strangulation

Coercive and Controlling Behaviour

Perverting the Course of Justice

I made the difficult decision to accept these pleas and end the trial. These were the most serious offences and carry the longest custodial sentences.

Sentencing will take place on 13 March 2026, with sentencing guidelines of 10–12 years. Now I wait to see what the judge decides.

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Why We're Supporting Women’s Aid

I’m sharing my story to help other women who may feel trapped, frightened, or alone — just as I once did. (Jayda)

Women’s Aid provides lifesaving support to women and children escaping domestic abuse, including refuge spaces, emotional support, and legal advocacy.

By donating, you are helping women escape abuse and rebuild their lives safely.

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Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read this page. By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping show other women that help is available, support exists, and they are not alone.

💜 Thank you for standing with survivors. 💜