Domestic violence survivor shares story at Bibb County symposium
Patrisha Sinclair and District Attorney Anita Howard are raising awareness about warning signs of abuse and resources available to survivors.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Patricia Sinclair is sharing her story of surviving domestic violence to encourage others experiencing abuse to seek help.
Five years ago, Sinclair was stabbed multiple times by her ex-fiancé in front of their children. According to Bibb County District Attorney Anita Howard, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of aggravated assault.
Sinclair spoke about her experience at Howard’s annual Domestic Violence Symposium, which brings together organizations and advocates to raise awareness, educate the public and connect survivors with resources.
“Believe in yourself and gather the strength through that weakness and that weakest situation that you’re going through, because without the strength you will not be able to get through,” Sinclair said. “Love yourself and keep fighting for yourself or those kids that you have to get through any situation and every situation that may be domestic to you.”
Howard said recognizing the warning signs of domestic violence and knowing where to find help can be challenging for people experiencing abuse.
“The event brings awareness and education,” Howard said. “It allows individuals to know what signs are, it allows individuals to know where resources are. Those are the two things that we find are the most challenging. What are the signs? And then what resources are available.”
Howard said warning signs can include stalking, repeated unwanted phone calls, obsessive behavior and property damage.
She also said domestic violence can affect children who witness abuse at home, potentially affecting their behavior and ability to focus at school.
Howard said domestic violence should not be treated as a private family matter because its effects can extend throughout the community.
“Oftentimes, we think because it’s happening in the four walls of a home, that domestic violence is a private matter, but it is a public concern,” Howard said. “It’s a community concern, and it affects all of us.”
The symposium connects survivors with organizations that provide support and assistance, including Crisis Line and Safe House and Georgia Legal Services. These organizations can help survivors access shelter, education and assistance with temporary protective orders.
Howard’s annual symposium is part of an effort to raise awareness about domestic violence and help individuals and families find the resources they need.
