How to help us Emma's volunteering story Becoming a volunteer for Women's Aid, has made me realise just how far I've actually come in the last 3 years and that I should take more ownership over it and be proud of myself that I broke free from an abusive marriage. Because... I was once that woman who always had a smile for everyone, but behind closed doors was called moody, hormonal, and boring. I was once that woman who was trying to change myself for someone that never really cared. I was once that woman who would cry myself to sleep most nights believing that I'd never be good enough...for anyone. I was once that woman who was gaslighted to the point of questioning my own sanity. I was once that woman who was made to feel isolated even with everyone around me. I was once that woman who had to tend to HIS needs. I was once that woman who was undermined in front of others. I was once that woman who was repeatedly told I was selfish. I was once that woman who was too broken to share her story... I'm no longer broken. I'm no longer afraid. I'm no longer a victim. I am stronger, smarter, more careful and I know my self-worth. I AM the woman who wanted a better life. I AM the woman who decided enough was enough. I've had a lot of unpleasant experiences in my life, but they definitely do not define who I am as a woman. If I can be just one other person's story, then I have made an impact on them and that is honestly one of THE best feelings ever.