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Pamela Redmond's avatar

Naz, I very much relate to your story. I too had an abusive husband and had similar difficulty getting away, though much easier than you because I didn't have a baby to support and protect at the same time. I have to be honest: I don't believe in angels. But I do believe in you, in your courage and your strength and your persistence. You are an extraordinary person and deserve all credit for your amazing success as a writer, a mother, and a person.

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Naz Pankey's avatar

I am moved by your courage, and I am so glad you got away. Thank you for your support and for letting me know that my story inspired you. It means a lot. 💛💛💛

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Teresa Kay Albertson, MFA's avatar

Naz, successfully writing deeply emotional stories is a rare ability. You are a rare writer to be able to write smoothly and patiently through such trauma. This piece is a master class of how to build an authentic story. As I was reading I was reminded of the many times I handed myself over to God as I tried to survive and escape from cruel people. My life has become so safe, so calm, so fulfilling that I had forgotten those desperate moments. Reading this helps me remember and be thankful for where I am now. Sharing photos of you and your sons is the ideal way to complete your powerful series. Thank you.

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Naz Pankey's avatar

Teresa, thank you so much. Your support means the world to me. This is the first time I’ve ever written and shared my story in full. I’ve spoken about parts of it before, but never the whole truth. It feels good to finally let it out and even better to have a safe space to share it. My hope is that it reaches someone who needs the courage to speak up or find a way out of abuse and violence.

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Julie A Klein's avatar

WOW! So well written, Naz, and brave of you to write. I'm so honored to call you a friend, my beautiful Soul-Sister!

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Naz Pankey's avatar

Soul-Sister for life. Thank you, my beautiful, Juliebird.

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Nikki Meyler Miller's avatar

God has certainly blessed you! You deserve it, and so do your precious boys!

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Naz Pankey's avatar

Thank you, Nikki.

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Mary Jo Curtis's avatar

My heart was pounding as you made that snowy trip to NYC, Naz. You have an amazing and inspiring story, and you tell it so, so well. I'm blessed to have never been the target of someone's violence, but I sensed the terror you must've felt. And, as a mother, I didn't have to do much imagining to feel your desperate drive to protect your beautiful son. I'm so grateful for your bravery that has enabled you to be here today with us.

xoxo

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