When I heard the tape of Mel Gibson demeaning and threatening his former girlfriend - the mother of his child - it reminded me of the abuser I escaped from. I applaud her for taping him and I applaud the person who released them to the public - domestic violence is not a personal problem - it affects everyone. I hope it opens more serious discussion about this serious crime. I wish the media would stop with the victim blaming though. Victims of domestic violence do not ALLOW the abuse - it's forced on them. They feel trapped, alone, confused and ashamed. All victims of abuse resist in the safest way they can....they develop coping strategies to survive.... they are not weak - they're strong.....they want to live......they want to feel safe......they need help, compassion and support- not harsh judgement which just adds to the heavy burden of shame they already carry.

I was very honoured to receive The Tulip Award for my book, 'Sleeping with a Psychopath'. I felt validated because the award was presented by a local women's shelters - those amazing people who help the victims/survivors of domestic violence. To have their support, acknowledgement and encouragement, for me, meant my story was important - the message.

'Sleeping with a Psychopath' is available at amazon.com