All social classes are affected by domestic violence, in similar proportions.
Jasmine, age 34 and a hematologist at a renowned cancer treatment center in Brussels. Nine of the thirteen years spent by this mother of two with her partner were abusive ones. Recently separated, Jasmine was the victim of grievous bodily harm, psychological harassment and rape. Despite the severity of the events, she broke off proceedings: “I was worn out. I didn’t want to fight any more; I just wanted peace, even the most fleeting... At the time, I considered committing suicide. Homicide, too. It was only when I learned that one of my colleagues, who could no longer stand her husband’s abuse, was sentenced to two years in prison for having killed him, that it finally clicked, how serious my situation was. In a last effort by my survival instincts, I left.”
The young woman called Florence Lobet, counselor at Violences Conjugales, Ca Vaut Pas l’Coup”. She also met with a police victimologist. “I was on a boat getting battered in a storm. It was sinking, my head was underwater and then, two hands reached out for me. I am now in recovery but am still not stable. When I feel depressed, I call Florence Lobet, regardless of the time or day, and she sets me straight and soothes me. Such strong support is essential when you are going through this type of ordeal. Not just her advice, but equally her support throughout my separation, the different procedures, and the court system.”
March 17, 2011 – Brussels – Belgium.
© Pierre-Yves GINET