In today’s world, domestic violence and abuse have become a harsh reality for many individuals. The fear of being harmed by someone you love is a feeling that nobody should ever have to experience. For one woman, that fear became a reality when her own boyfriend threatened to kill her. But, in a moment of sheer instinct and quick thinking, she spotted something that ultimately saved her life. This is her story.
Jolene Norman, a 30-year-old woman, has bravely shared the story of her escape from her abusive partner Dale Gresty, who had attacked her multiple times. The couple met on social media in 2019 and began dating, but Gresty’s behavior quickly turned violent. Jolene endured horrifying abuse at his hands, including being cut with scissors, beaten, and threatened with nail polish remover.
Gresty was arrested in May 2020 and jailed for assault, unlawful wounding, and actual bodily harm, crimes he committed against Jolene. Shortly after his release, he once again attacked Jolene after demanding to see their daughter. However, Jolene managed to fight back with incredible strength when she saw a small opportunity. Seeing an open window behind Gresty, she pushed him through it, and he landed on the ground outside. She locked the window and called the police, and Gresty was subsequently arrested and convicted of ABH and breaching a restraining order, earning himself a prison sentence of 32 months.
Jolene says she struggled to put the attack behind her, but knowing that her attacker is in prison brings her comfort. She wants to use her story to raise awareness about domestic violence and to urge other victims to speak out and report their experiences to the police. She credits the Facebook community, “Love Doesn’t Hurt,” for supporting her through the ordeal.
Domestic violence affects millions of people worldwide, and victims often feel unable to speak out or seek help. The Women’s Aid charity offers advice to victims and their families, including keeping a phone nearby, getting in touch with charities for help, and familiarizing oneself with the Silent Solution. This is a service that allows people to report abuse without speaking down the phone, instead dialing “55.” SupportLine is another charity that provides support to victims of domestic abuse.
Jolene’s experience highlights the courage and strength required to escape an abusive situation. We must all work together to support victims of domestic violence and to prevent it from happening in the first place. Jolene’s message is clear – walk away before it’s too late. She has since found solace in her job, her children, and the knowledge that she has a bright future ahead of her.
