Why Clare* joined Emerge to walk against family violence

Clare’s reaction to Emerge’s story inviting supporters to join them on Wednesday 25 November to Walk Against family Violence: “I’m in” she wrote in a message to us.

She followed up with a glimpse into her journey to a new life free from violence – and all thanks to the support Emerge gave to her and her son.

“Two and a half years ago I took back my life,” Clare said.

“After nine years of repeatedly thinking this is it, this is the day I die, I walked out.”

Clare had put up with constant physical violence, mental and emotional abuse, and sheer hatred from her then partner – until something snapped.

“We left with nothing except each other,” Clare said.

She ended up with Emerge, a place she sees as a sanctuary and refuge, and began rebuilding their lives.

“I am now engaged to a wonderful man who treats me with love and respect and is an amazing dad to my son,” Clare said.

She has started a business from scratch, and it is now thriving.

“Finally, I am who I always wanted to be: happy, strong, loved and living fearlessly. I never knew life could be so beautiful.”

Clare was among the many hundreds of people who glammed up in orange for the annual Walk Against Family Violence.

The walk is an annual event. Emerge is one of the organisers behind the awareness-raising event.