As one of the most under reported crimes in the United States, domestic violence has been identified as the single major cause of injury to American women, exceeding rapes, muggings, and even auto accidents combined. (Surgeon General’s Office) The law defines domestic violence as the use of force, directed toward a spouse or former spouse, a cohabitant or former cohabitant, or a person with whom the abuser has had a dating or engagement relationship. Thus, a domestic violence batterer may include any family member, including siblings, grandparents, or a roommate.

have heard this enduring quote time and time again. It suggests that when life presents obstacles that would otherwise stifle your creativity, spirit or mere existence, combat that challenge head on. Little did writer, producer, Diana Rivera know that the words once uttered by Joan Collins would be a mantra for her day to day survival as a single parent.