Wilma's Story: Help Wilma and her son.
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My situation is desperate. Never in my life of 36 years did I think I would have to appeal to your hearts for help.
When I met my estranged husband on the internet, I was naive. There were red flags, which I closed my eyes to. I learned too late that I was more of possession to him than a wife. We have been married for over six years. Things got bad when I got pregnant. He wanted me to end my pregnancy. He had his children with his first wife and wanted no more children. My beautiful son - almost three years old now - is a blessing to me. The first years of our marriage, even while pregnant, we lived on a semi-trailer rig. He always verbally abused me, and once, while pregnant, he even choked me.
About eight months ago, he again physically abused me in front of our son. This was when I got an order of protection. He made me think it was all my fault and begged me to take him back and see his son. The order of protection expired. We did not live together, but he did see his son. I hoped we could be civil for our son's sake... but nothing worked. He didn't want me to succeed as an independent mother of one. He never gave us one cent for rent, food, medical bills, or utilities. I was doing better with the help of friends, and my son and I were getting by. I was working long hours, making enough to pay the bills alone.
When my estranged husband came to pick up my son for the week, I had dinner with him and hoped we could be civil for our son's sake. He again begged me to go with him - but he knew I would say no, so he planned to kill me! He attacked me with a hatchet and hammer, hitting me in the face and head. I briefly lost consciousness for a time. I begged and told him I would go back with him for my life. He went outside for a moment, and I locked the door and called the police.
Now, I must heal before my doctor releases me to work. I need to find a place to live, and the little money I was able to save is almost gone. Time and time again, he made me feel like his abuse was my fault, and I started to believe him. However, I know that my son and I will survive. To the many women who have been abused. I know how you feel.
Many expenses need to be paid. This includes hospital bills from a four-day ICU visit, lack of income from being unable to work, payment for a new place to live and moving expenses, and possible legal fees.
Please help me and my son if you can. Sincerely, Wilma.
You can follow Wilma's story via the Northwest Herald or read more on the Crystal Lake Police Department Facebook Page.
Organizer
Wilma Alex
Organizer
Crystal Lake, IL