« Introducing Michele Tune The Writer | Main | PhotoHunt 166: Lock »
Introducing Michele Tune The Survior And Champion
By Eaglehawk | June 11, 2009
In this edition of the interview with Michele Tune, I asked her about her survival of domestic violence, and her war against the bulge. I even was able to talk her into let me show you pictures of her battle.
Me: You said you are a survivor of domestic violence; without getting too detailed would you mind telling us what happened?
Michele: It started with verbal abuse and escalated to physical abuse from there. The details are too haunting to mention here–it was bad.
Me: Did you think the violence was normal, something that was your fault, or something you thought might have been a phase?
Michele: I knew it wasn’t normal. I was raised in a non-violent home. I also knew it wasn’t a phase; however, I did end up believing it was my fault.
Me: What made you stay in the relationship for so long, and how long was it?
Michele: I loved him. I thought I could change him. I thought things would get better. I was with him off and on for 5 years.
Me: What was the proverbial straw the broke the camel’s back, causing you to get out of the situation?
Michele: It was the night he tried to kill me. “I’ve thought about it and it’s worth going to prison—just to know you’ll be dead” he said. That was it. I knew he’d never love me. I knew he couldn’t. I almost lost my life. That night, more than any other time, I stared death in the face. I thought I was going to die. I almost did. It took some planning and I had to wait a few days but I got away—with just $5 in my pocket and the clothes on my back.
Me: What was the biggest thing that helped you get out of the situation?
Michele: Realizing that I wanted to live and knowing that my parents and some other family were behind me. Knowing that they were there, waiting for me with open arms—that , and the fact that I’m stubborn. My determination also helped me fight my way out—and, yes, I had to fight my way out.
Me: What would you like for those suffering at the hand of domestic violence to know?
Michele: Start making an escape plan. Get out. Life is too short. You’re way more beautiful and special than your abuser is making you believe, than you think you are. Stay cool and act like everything is going to continue the way it has been. Don’t—and I repeat: do not—make your abuser suspicious. Make a plan in your head if you have to—if you know writing something down that they may find will put you in danger. Try, if you can at all, to hide money. Use your wildest imagination. If you cannot put your hands on money at all, still continue planning an escape. Someone will be willing to help you once you’re out. Just keep searching. There are good souls in this world. Pray for an angel.
Me: Do you have suggestions for those that want to know more about domestic violence to read?
Michele:
Domestic Violence And Abuse: Warning Signs and Symptoms of Abusive Relationships – HelpGuide.org
Safety Plan and Getting Help – NCADV (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)
How to Survive Domestic Violence – This is something I wrote with tips and ideas for how to get out and how to cope once you are out.
Also, women aren’t the only ones who suffer from domestic violence. Men are often the victims. A lot of people don’t believe it. I’ve actually seen situations where men are the abused. It happens.
Me: Can you mention what your weight was before you started you weight loss mission?
Michele: I was pretty much 300 pounds at my highest. I don’t think I topped 300, but I very well could have because there were times I didn’t weigh. So, it’s possible. I’m only 5′3″ so I was majorly miserable.
-- Weather When Posted --
- Temperature: 93°F;
- Humidity: 47%;
- Heat Index: 99°F;
- Wind Chill: 93°F;
- Pressure: 29.95 in.;
Categories: Interview
Technorati Tags: Domestic Violence, Interview, Michele Tune, Weight Loss
June 12th, 2009 at 12:50 am
Gosh, EagleHawk, I don't even know what to say. You've made a chatterbox speechless. I'm just speechless…
June 12th, 2009 at 1:05 am
Michelle, you are such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your story.
June 12th, 2009 at 1:11 am
LaShae, thank you so much for stopping by! I'm honored that you're inspired by me. And… you're most welcome! Thanks to EagleHawk for having me.
*smiles*
Michele
June 12th, 2009 at 1:12 am
FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Absolutely Fabulous! Thank you both – for asking and telling!
June 12th, 2009 at 1:31 am
Thanks, Mysti–for reading, and for your FANTABULOUS comment!!!
*smiles*
Michele
June 11th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
[...] that EagleHawk was interviewing me on his blog. I directed you to parts one and two. Well, now part three is live. And, well, I’m speechless! I’m so touched and honored by his words… [...]
June 12th, 2009 at 2:45 am
A great interview, and a courageous lady! **Standing ovation!**
June 12th, 2009 at 3:02 am
Aw, you're too kind PlaidEarthWorm. Really. Thanks!
June 12th, 2009 at 3:45 am
You've accomplished two amazing feats. Congratulations.
June 12th, 2009 at 3:58 am
Thank you, Mimi!
June 12th, 2009 at 5:32 am
Thank you. From the bottom of my heart.
June 12th, 2009 at 3:13 am
Wormy and I are very lucky to have such a good friend. As I said in the original post, you are my hero, I am sure Wormy thinks the same. There aren't enough words to describe Michele to the fullest extent.
June 12th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Michele – you are awesome and strong for speaking out on issues that many others chose not to.
Eaglehawk – great interview.
June 12th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Thank you, Lori!!!
June 13th, 2009 at 9:21 am
Michele,
You are an inspiration.
Eaglehawk,
Thanks for this great interview with Michele.
June 13th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
Hi, Lillie. Thank you very much!!!!
June 23rd, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Wonderful interview! (Excellent choice of questions on domestic violence, EagleHawk!) You are an inspiration to us all, Michele! Thanks for sharing your struggles and demonstrating that there's hope in even seemingly hopeless situations. (Also read your eHow article, which is great!)
Keep up the excellent work!
Jeanne
June 30th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
This is an impressive story! I only wish that these kind of things to never happen again. Respect between partners is very important, but violence doesn't mean lack of respect but lack of humanity! Thanks for such an interview!
June 30th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Aw, thanks Jeanne! (I thought I had responded to this already. I guess I hadn't!)
I appreciate your kind words and encouragement. I'm so glad you enjoyed the interview–and my eHow article!
Michele
June 30th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Thank you, Mindy. I'm honored that you enjoyed reading it! Yes, it is a lack of humanity. Domestic violence is very cruel and ugly, much worse than I mentioned here.
Thanks for stopping by!
Michele
August 7th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Thanks so much, hospedagem! I'm honored.