Domestic Abuse Presentation Oct. 7

Domestic abuse survivor and advocate Connie Nelson will share her experience of surviving over 30 years of domestic abuse Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m., at the Marit Elliot Performing Arts Center at the Melrose Area High School.
In her presentation, Nelson will discuss how she married at 18 and became entrapped in an ever-worsening cycle of abuse on their northern Todd County farm. For over 30 years she endured physical and psychological abuse from her husband while neighbors, friends and family were afraid to help. She finally fled his violence, only to be abducted, naked and choked unconscious, by her soon-to-be ex-husband and taken to Mexico and held his prisoner for the next 15 days.
Today Nelson works to help other women escape domestic abuse as an advocate for Hands of Hope Resource Center, which has offices in Long Prairie and Little Falls. In 2013, she told her story to author Darrel Day, who published the book Stolen Years: A True Story of Domestic Abuse and Survival, which will be available to buy that night.
Also speaking will be Deb Schroeder from Anna Marie’s Shelter in St. Cloud, who will discuss services provided by the shelter.
Attendance is free and open to the public; however, because of the graphic nature of the presentation, it is recommended attendees be at least 16 years of age. Refreshments will be available after the presentation.
This event is sponsored by the Melrose Area Women of Today to raise awareness of domestic abuse during October, National Prevent Domestic Abuse Month.