Help me to escape abuse – New Life!

I dream of a new life. Of a new start. I need the help of some loving, caring people. I need a hand.

I've been in an abusive relationship for 3 years. Why haven't I left? I have a car, but it is in such bad shape, I cannot drive it on the freeway anymore, because the transmission is failing. I work in a retail store, making $7.40 an hour. I have no college education. I have no chance of escape without help. I have a plan- but not enough money. I have a friend in another state that I can stay with, but I need at least 5,000 to get on my feet. I have a 17 year old daughter at home, as well. I want to start a new life. Please help me.

The abuse started when my husband began hitting me. The hitting has stopped, but the emotional and verbal abuse has not. I was forced to have an abortion because my husband told me he did not want the child. I still cry to this day for that baby. I am completely controlled by this man, and I cannot do anything for myself, as he will not let me. I cannot watch television, unless he chooses to turn the t.v. set on. He gets upset when there is hair or dirt on the floor. He made me give away my tiny chihuahua puppy- i miss her so much. I promised my daughter that one day we would get a new puppy. One day I will give her a new life, but I cannot do it on my own. All of my paycheck (what little there is) goes to all the bills- the rent, electric, phone, etc. I don't have any left to save. I have to pay all the bills, as any money "He" makes is "His" money to do as he pleases.

Please, find it in your heart to help this mom make a new life for herself and her daughter. Make this story one that has a real happy ending.