Breaking the Cycle - Escaping Toxic Relationships - Bridget's Story

*CW This episode contains sensitive subjects and is for mature audiences.
*Technical Disclaimer*
This episode may contain preliminary audio, visual, and editing elements, as we are still optimizing our production quality. We appreciate your understanding as we work to improve.

Welcome to episode 7!
In this episode of Awakened to Freedom, Jada interviews Bridget Pagna, who shares her harrowing journey through two toxic relationships marked by emotional and physical abuse. Bridget discusses the challenges she faced, the turning points that led her to leave, and her path to healing. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse and the need for support systems for women in similar situations. Bridget also highlights her commitment to helping others escape domestic violence and the empowerment that comes from sharing one's story.

Bridget speaks of a charity that is close to her heart. In the UK, Refuge is a leading charity providing specialist support for women and children escaping domestic violence, offering safe accommodation, advocacy, and a 24/7 helpline. Visit their website at www.refuge.org.uk to donate today.

If you or someone you know is trying to leave an abusive relationship, help is available.
Below are emergency helpline numbers for women in Canada, the USA, and the UK who need immediate assistance:

Canada:
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511 (24/7, available in up to 154 languages)
• Hope for Wellness Helpline (for Indigenous people): 1-855-242-3310 (24/7, available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut)
• Family Violence Info Line (Alberta): 310-1818 (24/7, call or text)
• Kids Help Phone (for youth): 1-800-668-6868 (24/7)
• Emergency: Call 911


USA:
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) (24/7)
• Love Is Respect (for teens): 1-866-331-9474 (24/7)
• Crisis Text Line: Text CONNECT to 741741 (24/7)
• Emergency: Call 911

UK:
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Refuge): 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
• Women’s Aid Live Chat: Available Monday-Friday, 10am-10pm at www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
• Men’s Advice Line (for male victims): 0808 801 0327 (Monday-Friday, 10am-8pm)
• National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Galop): 0800 999 5428 (Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm)
• Emergency: Call 999 (if unable to speak, press 55 to signal for help)
You are not alone, and there is hope. Reach out for support and take the first step toward safety and healing.