1 in 9 men.
How V Teamer Alfred Hill survived domestic violence.
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As we wrap up Domestic Violence Awareness Month, data from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence report that one in four women and one in nine men have experienced some form of physical violence, sexual abuse, or stalking by an intimate partner. On today’s edition of Up To Speed, meet V Teamer Alfred Hill, an Assistant Manager in Houston, Texas who bravely shared his experience as a domestic violence survivor.
Alfred and his wife of more than 28 years met in Houston, choosing to raise their family in the city. Over the first few years, the family spent plenty of quality time together, going on vacations, attending sporting events and exposing his children to plenty of positive energy — all that changed after 10 years.
“It took a nasty turn,” Alfred said. “[His wife became] very aggressive, in my face, really provoking, saying negative things. I felt like I was a horrible father because I heard it over and over and over again.”
Enough is enough
Alfred says his wife would criticize his job and his weight. It wasn’t until his daughter had a breakdown and suicidal ideations that he decided enough is enough.
It was a tough step for Alfred. “If I wasn’t going through therapy with a good support group, I wouldn’t be here right now,” he said.
The police came to Alfred’s house several times, due to threats. Finally, Alfred realized he had to leave or risk something terrible happening. That’s when Alfred decided to call Verizon’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The program provided him with many of the resources he needed, including monetary assistance through Verizon’s VtoV program.
“Verizon, they really care — if they didn’t help me, I would’ve had to move in with my brother,” said Alfred. “I didn’t have any additional funds when I originally reached out to EAP.”
His advice to V Teamers, men or women who are struggling in an abusive relationship is to reach out for help: EAP is a simple and confidential resource.
“You will be surprised with the resources that can help you transition to get better.”
