“I ask all Americans to do their part to end domestic violence in this country…”—President Barack Obama, A Proclamation to commemorate October as “National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.”
What seemed to be love almost killed her.
More than 25 years ago, Linda Foster managed to survive the throes of domestic violence and is now determined to help others escape before it’s too late.
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In her first novel, “Struggling for Love and Life,” published by universe, Foster describes a relationship that “was never meant to be.” Although the names and places are changed in the fictional account, the horrifying details are not.
Her triumph through God’s grace was the topic of discussion at an inaugural book signing Oct. 10 at the McKeesport Heritage Center. The event coincided with “National Domestic Violence Awareness Month “ observed each October, to recognize the victims, survivors and social service workers who know all too well the devastation and despair associated with sexual, psychological and physical abuse between intimate partners.
According to a recent national survey, nearly 1.3 million women are victimized each year from such abuse.
In October 1987, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence initiated the first monthly observance. In the same year, the national domestic violence hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) was established. Two years later, in 1989, Congress enacted legislation designating national recognition of this month.
“It was a hard story to tell, yet I believe that God has directed me to share my testimony to help others.”
Foster is a licensed missionary of Trinity Church of God in Christ, McKeesport. Her ministry touches the lives of many, including her monthly soup kitchen that provides food for the body, soul and spirit, along with her youth outreach. Foster is the mother of three and grandmother of six.
(“Struggling for Love and Life” is available online from Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Iuniverse—www.iuniverse.com.)
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