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The scars of domestic violence often remain long after the abuse ends. Victoria's story reveals the staggering physical toll—over 120 surgeries in nearly two decades with more to come—including an upcoming radical ear procedure that will leave her completely deaf in one ear. Yet despite never experiencing a pain-free day in almost twenty years, her positivity remains unshaken.

"If anyone has the reason to be like, screw the world, screw everybody in it...it would be me," Victoria acknowledges. "But I'm not going to let that piece of crap win." This defiant statement encapsulates the extraordinary resilience that defines her journey from victim to advocate.

The podcast delves into powerful moments of maternal protection, like when Victoria's "tiger mom" instinct emerged after her abuser threatened their unborn child. Though she typically remained silent to avoid further violence, this threat awakened something fierce within her. This protective instinct ultimately gave her the strength to escape and rebuild her life.

Victoria passionately challenges the excuse that abusers behave as they do because of difficult childhoods. "Because somebody had a bad childhood, that doesn't mean it's okay to make your spouse your playground for violence," she asserts, noting that many people with challenging upbringings—including herself and her husband—choose to break cycles of abuse rather than perpetuate them.

Today, Victoria and her husband have transformed their painful experiences into purpose by creating an academy with resources for domestic violence survivors and special needs families. Their message to those still suffering resonates with hard-earned wisdom: "You are one hell of a warrior...we're going to help you heal, and we are going to be with you every step of the way."

Join our community at ContagiousSmile.com where you'll find resources, support, and proof that healing isn't just possible—thriving is too.

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