She fled another country with her 14-year-old son, fleeing a husband who was psychologically, economically, and physically abusive to her.

She fled another country with her 14-year-old son, fleeing from a husband who had been psychologically, economically, and physically abusive to her. She had endured years of humiliation: her husband controlled her money and even her food, was aggressive when drunk, and after fleeing, kept calling her for a long time to break her down.

Loneliness, debt, depression, and insomnia became a daily reality. She tried to maintain a normal life for her son—school, belongings, food—but there was not enough money and no support.

It was then that a friend advised her to contact the “Your Space” NGO MARTIN-club. She wrote a message on Instagram — and the very next day she found herself in a consultation with a psychologist. This was the first step towards recovery: she heard there the important phrase “you are not alone,” which gave her the strength not to give up.

From that moment on, her life began to change. Week after week, she worked with a psychologist, learning to feel the ground under her feet again. Later, a lawyer joined the work, who helped prepare and file divorce documents. The case manager provided support in obtaining social assistance, thanks to which she managed to cover legal costs.

The woman took part in the training “Strong in Spirit: The Path to Recovery and Development” from the MARTIN Club, where she was able to reboot: through yoga practices and therapeutic exercises with drums, she got rid of aggression and fatigue and, for the first time in a long time, slept through the night. This was a real victory for her, because insomnia had been draining her of strength for years. For her, it was like a miracle: sleep restored her strength, and there were women with similar stories nearby who understood her without words. She felt that she was no longer alone in her struggle.

Thanks to comprehensive assistance, the woman was able to emerge from a state of deep crisis. She realized that she had the right to protection and a new life. Her words revealed hope and confidence in the future.

She was able to reconnect with her sister after a three-year break, which was another important step towards stability. Although the legal process is ongoing and there are still issues of child support ahead, she now has a strong support system.

She is most grateful for the sense of community: the words "you are not alone" were a turning point for her, saving her from despair.

Today, this woman is confidently moving forward, working on her mental health, and believing that her future and that of her son will be safe and happy.

"Your Space" is a place where women who have experienced violence can take the first step towards recovery. Here they find safety, support, and new opportunities.

The project to assist victims of gender-based violence is implemented by the NGO MARTIN-club with the support of the international organization Norwegian People's Aid within the framework of the "Comprehensive Approach to Crisis Response: Mine Action, Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence, and Support for Livelihoods in Ukraine."