My Story

Hello, my name is Lisa.

I am a survivor of domestic violence. Six years ago, my life changed forever. On April 11th, I was the victim of a violent crime committed by my ex-husband of 25 years. I was drugged, physically assaulted, and raped. Because I had been heavily drugged, I was unable to defend myself or even fully understand what was happening.

When I regained consciousness, I called 911, though to this day I have no memory of making that call or even giving my address. I was in a severely impaired, almost comatose state and nearly lost my life on the way to the hospital. At the time, I had no idea what had happened to me.

At the emergency room, tests were conducted. Later, I discovered that I had been given four times the normal dosage of penicillin—despite having a severe, documented allergy. This was flagged in my medical records.

Fearing for my safety, I left the state without telling anyone where I was going. Three days later, bruising appeared on my body, along with a needle mark on my arm. I reported everything to my local police department, but I was told there was not enough evidence to prosecute. My medical records were never even reviewed.

When I obtained an order of protection against my ex-husband, it was not served for two weeks. During that time, I remained vulnerable. To make matters worse, when divorce proceedings were filed, the courthouse publicly listed my protected address online, putting me at even greater risk.

Due to COVID-related delays, I was unable to access my medical records for over two years. When I finally received them, I was shocked to confirm the overdose of penicillin—something my ex-husband knew could be life-threatening to me.

Eventually, I returned to Arizona and entered a domestic violence shelter. It was one of the most important decisions I have ever made. The shelter provided me with the support, safety, and resources I needed to begin healing.

My ex-husband was never charged. I lost my home and many personal belongings that can never be replaced. Over time, I also learned more about his struggles with drug and alcohol abuse. Four years later, he passed away due to that lifestyle.

For my own safety, I am leaving out certain details. However, I created this website to advocate for change.

Domestic violence victims should not have to flee their homes and lose everything to survive. Their homes should be the safest place for them—not the most dangerous. Orders of protection should be served within 24 hours, not delayed for weeks due to system failures. Law enforcement officers need stronger training in handling domestic violence cases. Courts must do better in protecting victims’ confidential information.

I am calling for stronger laws and better protections for victims of domestic violence—including women, men, and especially children.

It is time for change.