Advocates say domestic violence deaths are at an all-time high in Ohio. This survivor is sharing her story

HAMILTON, Ohio — Monica Woody opens her curtains to look at the snow. It makes her happy.

Not because she loves snow. But because she’s not scared anymore.

“I came here with nothing,” Woody said. “Nothing.”

Last summer, Woody left an abusive relationship. She came here to start over. Here, to the domestic violence shelter at YWCA Hamilton , a place that connects people to resources and helps victims escape domestic violence.

“I’m a domestic violence survivor,” Woody said. “And I would like to tell my story.”

Because her story is part of a larger crisis.

This domestic violence survivor has dedicated her life to helping other victims

The Ohio Domestic Violence Network says this year was the most lethal year for domestic violence in the state since it began tracking fatalities a