THE STORIES
Rosalind’s story
The abuse I suffered started slowly with “gentle criticism” but over the years grew to encompass almost every form of abuse: verbal, psychological, emotional, sexual and physical. It became systemic. In the process, I became so confused and traumatized that I began to disappear.
I didn’t have the words to describe what was happening to me so I drew pictures. In the end, these pictures helped restore my memory and define for me what I had lived through. They helped me get out.
When a publisher asked if they could publish my pictures, I agreed. It is my hope that Dragonslippers will help others understand the phenomenon of “the disappearing woman” in abusive situations - what causes us to stay, and what can help us get out. Most of all, I hope it will serve as a warning in the first place, and save some from ever getting in!
Rosalind B. Penfold is the author of Dragonslippers: This is what an abusive relationship looks like
