My New Normal After Domestic Violence

I grew up with a single Korean American mom in Culver City, California. My parents divorced when I was around six or seven, and my dad stayed in South Korea. I don't have any memories of him as a little girl, and I grew up not having any positive role models when it came to dating and relationships.

While I was chasing my professional dreams across the country, I fell in love with a man who reminded me of Prince Charming. He was sweet and treated me like a princess. Just when I convinced myself that he could be my forever partner, things started to change.

One night, I ended up on our bedroom floor pinned down by the man I loved and trusted. He punched me countless times and pounded my head against the hard wooden floor. He looked at me and smiled as I begged him to stop. I feared that this was how I was going to die.

If it wasn't for the grace of God, I don't know that I would be here today. The doctor in the emergency room lost count of how many contusions I had suffered on my head, so he wrote down at least seven on each side. He told me that it was a miracle that I did not experience internal bleeding.

I suffered from PTSD, constant headaches and countless bruises. Hours turned into days, weeks, months and now years. True justice was never served, and I sank into a deep depression, wondering if I could ever bounce back again.

Well, I eventually did. But I also realized that my life will never look the same. I've seen and experienced firsthand the damaging consequences of domestic violence and sexual assault. I believe they are a couple of the worst crimes that people can commit. A strong conviction started to grow inside my heart, and I knew that I had to share my experiences in an effort to raise awareness about these issues and to become a resource to help others. So, I'm revamping this website. This is my new normal now - to be a voice for those who can't talk about it now or maybe even forever.

As an Asian American, I'm aware that these are taboo topics that we shy away from. That's why I believe it is so important to share my personal stories now. I don't wish for my worst enemy to endure the emotional and physical pain that I went through. I'm here for you, and I'm willing to do what I can to help you step out into a better tomorrow.