And the years passed like scenes of a show
The professor said to write what you know
Looking backwards might be the only way to move forward
– TS, The Manuscript
Hi, and welcome! I'm so happy you're here.
For what felt like forever, I lived with someone who spent every day controlling me. His rage was calculated yet unpredictable. I was afraid to sleep at night, to go to work, to say no to anything he asked. I started believing there was something wrong with me—that I was broken and unlovable.
I told no one. I was filled with shame.
When I saw him terrorize my dog Finley, something within me snapped. The next day, I found a way out, Finley by my side.
That year has had a tremendous impact on my physical and mental health. Securing a restraining order was a humiliating, lengthy ordeal. The guilt about letting him hurt Finley consumed me. I still taste adrenaline all the time because I sense danger.
But I’m fortunate—I’m a survivor. Many women don't have the same privilege—money, education, transportation, housing—that helped me build a bridge to safety. Many never find a way out.
I serve as Alianza’s Board President because everyone deserves to live free from violence and shame. My mission is to shine a light on Alianza—a resource I didn’t know existed when I needed help—and ensure they have the funding to support every survivor who reaches out. I share Alianza’s info with friends, colleagues, and neighbors. Domestic violence doesn't discriminate. Everyone knows someone.
This month, I'm walking with the best team ever, the Swiftie Squad, in the Alianza Cider Donut Dash—a chance to celebrate survivors and to raise critical funding. I hope you’ll join us. It’s going to be an amazing day.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting Alianza, and for supporting me.
'Cause I thought that I'd never find that beautiful, beautiful life that
Shimmers that innocent light back
Like when we were young
– TS, Eldest Daughter