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Friday, December 25, 2015
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Breaking free from domestic violence Files police receive are never-ending Pamela Roth Victoria News
It started off as a passionate relationship packed with fun and adventure. At the age of 25, Donna met her boyfriend while working in Victoria’s restaurant industry. The pair had several mutual friends, fell in love and decided to go travelling for a year. It was the adventure of a lifetime. Even though Donna had a lot of fun exploring new places with her partner by her side, it wasn’t always roses and sunshine. “We would have times where we got along really well and then times where we’d have these huge blow ups,” said Donna, who did not want reveal her real identity for safety reasons. “As time went on, it just became increasingly intense.” Upon their return to Victoria, the couple had a child and got married. That’s when everything changed. According to Donna, her husband became more controlling with the finances
and verbally abusive. Despite the troubles brewing in their relationship, they had another child and purchased a house, but the abuse only got worse as more responsibilities were added to their plate. “The atmosphere at home was really negative,” said Donna. “I was fearful by the end of it. I felt really beaten down. It really took a toll on my self-esteem.” After 12 years of abuse, Donna finally found the courage to leave when a big fight prompted her eightyear-old son to call 911. She admits leaving her marriage was a tough decision, especially since her husband refused to cooperate with anything, but four years later Donna feels healthier and happier than ever despite the relentless name calling from the man she once loved. Donna admits there are times she still struggles to keep her head above water financially and emotionally, but she knows she’s not alone. PlEASE SEE: Male victims, Page A3
Pamela Roth/Victoria News
Seasons greetings! The B.C. legislature is all lit up for the holiday season.
Group wants animals allowed in all shelters Kendra Wong Victoria News
For the last month, Monica Cruz and her seven-month-old pitbull Princess have been inseparable. Every day, the duo wakes up in her bed at Rock Bay Landing, a shelter operated by the Victoria Cool Aid Society, and goes for a walk to the dog park.
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It’s become routine for the pair who have called Rock Bay Landing home for the past month. But it wasn’t always easy finding a home for both pet and owner. Cruz, 39, originally came to Victoria a year-and-a-half ago from Saskatchewan with a friend. Unable to find a safe ride back home, she ended up living on the streets of downtown Victoria for several months.
After eventually finding shelter at Rock Bay Landing, a friend who owned Princess at the time, asked Cruz to watch her temporarily. Within a few days, Cruz said her mood improved dramatically. Princess’ health also improved and she gained a healthy amount of weight. PlEASE SEE: Pets are family, Page A3
Happy Holidays! Wishing you and your family all the best in 2016!
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